Bailouts

[bgmb]

I know bailouts are old news but this has really been bugging me lately;

How can govs just bail everyone out auto industry makes bad decisions and unions extract excess wages = financial trouble = bailout.

greece, bad decisions, people just simply spend more than they make and think they entitled to whatever they want so country goes broke = bailout.

wall street makes a whole bunch of really bad choices, well, just bail them out and all will be ok.

So where do the bailouts end? Obviously we are all going to pay for this negligence either through inflation or taxes. I am betting inflation.

What ever happened to living with the consequences of a bad decision.

Grandpa told me awhile back he never bought a piece of machinery he didn't have the cash to pay for. Humm I guess thats what going though the 30's does to you.

[parsley]

Crash

1. Interest rates will skyrocket.
2. Cash will be scarce.
3. Credit will only be given to only credible character applicants.
4. Investment will dry up.
5. Unemployment will rise.
6. Dollar won't buy much.
7. Unrest
8. Taxes will be unbearably high.
9. Unrest
10. Goods will be hard to find in stores.

imho

[parsley]

These programs apply to Maniotba only.

How "helped" do Manitoba farmers feel?

Agriculture has become an emnployment business, hasn't it?

Fire them all. Pars

"Agricultural/Rural Business Guide
Last Verified: May 11, 2010

What is a Business Guide?
The Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre created Business Guides to help you navigate through the wide range of programs and services in a specific area as well as related regulations that may affect your business venture. Business Guides featuring other topics of interest are also available by contacting the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre at 204-984-2272 (in Winnipeg) or 1-800-665-2019 (toll free in Canada) or by e-mail at manitoba@canadabusiness.mb.ca.

Note: In addition to providing an immediate clickable link when viewing this document online, we have suggested search words/terms to assist you in future or additional program and/or service information searches on our or other sites.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Agriculture
Agriculture - Financial Assistance
Agriculture - Insurance
Agriculture - Other Programs and Services
Non-Agricultural Businesses
Non-Agricultural Financial Assistance
Non-Agricultural Programs and Services
Agriculture
Agriculture - Financial Assistance
Advance Payments Program (APP)
Financial Guarantee Programs Division
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - AAFC
Phone: 1-888-346-2511
E-mail: fgp-pgf@agr.gc.ca
Internet - Program Info: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1178036035451&lang=e
Internet - Producer Organizations: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1179174721065&lang=eng#mb
Search words: Advance Payments Program

The program enables producers to obtain a cash advance on their agricultural products so as to meet their short term financial obligations. This allows producers to base their sales decisions on market conditions rather than on their short-term cash flow needs. Producers can receive up to $400,000 with the first $100,000 being interest-free, repayable within 18 months as the producer sells their agricultural product.

Agri-Opportunities Program
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Phone: Toll free - 1-877-246-4682
E-mail: agri-opps@agr.gc.ca
Web site: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1195488674667&lang=eng

The Agri-Opportunities Program provides funds to accelerate the commercialization of new agricultural products, processes or services. Funding is provided for projects that can be expected to increase market opportunities for the Canadian agricultural industry across the value chain and generate demand for primary agricultural products.

AgriStability Payments
AgriStability - Farm Income Programs
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Phone: Toll free - 1-866-367-8506
Internet: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1200508680358&lang=e
Search words: AgriStability Program, AAFC

Under this program Farmers receive a payment when their current year program margin falls below 85% of their reference margin.

Agricultural Flexibility Fund
Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada
Phone: 1-877-290-2188
Fax: 613-773-1922
E-mail: AgriFlex@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1247082294164&lang=eng
Search words: Agricultural Flexibility Fund

The Agricultural Flexibility Fund (AgriFlexibility) is a five-year (2009-2014), $500 million initiative to facilitate the implementation of new initiatives, both federally and in partnership with provinces, territories and industry. This fund will improve the sector's competitiveness and will help the sector adapt to pressures by funding non-business risk-management measures such as those that will reduce costs of production, improve environmental sustainability, promote innovation and respond to market challenges.

Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program (CAAP)
Adaptation Division
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Phone: 613-773-1914
Fax: 613-773-1922
E-mail: caap-pcaa@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1182366508375&lang=eng
Search words: CAAP, AAFC

Under this Program Canadian companies can apply for a repayable contribution to - develop solutions to emerging agriculture and agri-food issues and undertake pre-commercialization activities to transfer research results into new market opportunities.

Canadian Agricultural Loans Act Program (CALA)
(Formerly Farm Improvement and Marketing Cooperatives Loan Act)
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - AAFC
Phone: 1-888-346-2511
E-mail: fgp-pgf@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1177344219813&lang=eng
Search words: CALA

This program is a financial loan guarantee program that gives farmers easier access to credit. Farmers can use these loans to establish, improve, and develop farms; while Agricultural co-operatives may also access loans to process, distribute, or market the products of farming. The maximum loan amounts are: $500,000 for land and the construction or improvement of buildings, $350,000 for all other loan purposes, the aggregate loan limit for any one farmer is $500,000, and $3 million for agricultural co-operatives with the Minister's approval.

Farm Credit Canada - Loans and Services
Farm Credit Canada - FCC
Phone: 1-888-332-3301
E-mail: csc@fcc-fac.ca
Internet: http://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/index.asp
Search words: Farm Credit Canada

The FCC lends money for any farm-related purpose - land, buildings, equipment, land improvements, quota, livestock, agribusiness or value-added enterprises, diversification initiatives; and businesses related to agriculture, both farmer and non-farmer owned. FCC can lend to new and established farmers with or without off-farm income, for any size of operation, provided the borrower is of legal age and a Canadian citizen (or permanent resident).

MASC - Lending Programs - Bridging Generations Mortgage Guarantee
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_bridging_generations.html
Search words: MASC, Bridging Generations

Bridging Generations Mortgage Guarantees assist with inter-generational farm transfers by providing young farmers with low-cost mortgage financing and a guaranteed income stream for the retiring farmer. With the retiree holding the mortgage, the borrower makes payments to MASC, which in turn makes guaranteed payments to the retiree.

MASC - Lending Programs - Comprehensive Refinancing
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_comprehensive_refinancing.html
Search words: MASC, Comprehensive Refinancing

Existing MASC clients who are experiencing financial difficulties, and have no previous write-off histories may qualify for Comprehensive Refinancing Loans to restructure existing MASC debt. Repayment terms of up to 25 years are available.

MASC - Lending Programs - Direct Loans
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_direct_loans.html
Search words: MASC, Direct Loans

A Direct Loan can be obtained for the purchase of land and/or buildings for agricultural purposes; the purchase of breeding stock; permanent improvements to land/buildings, construction/renovation of farm housing, production buildings and clearing, breaking and drainage of land, and debt consolidation. Direct Loans provide financing of up to a maximum of $750,000 for individuals and up to $1,500,000 for partnerships, corporations, and co-operatives with terms of up to 25 years.

MASC - Lending Programs - Environmental Enhancement Loans
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_environmental_enhancement.html
Search words: Environmental Enhancement Loans, MASC

Program coverage focuses on Beneficial Management Practices (BMP) projects such as improved manure storage, handling and treatment, relocation of livestock/horticulture facilities and other BMPs that may involve a substantial capital commitment. These Loans are available for up to $150,000 with terms of repayment of up to 15 years. Monthly, quarterly, or semi-annual payments are available. There are no prepayment penalties.

MASC - Lending Programs - Stocker Loans
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_stocker_loans.html
Search words: Stocker Loans - MASC

Stocker Loans can be used for the purchase of steer and heifer calves, and feeder cows. Cash advances can be issued for stocker cattle already owned by the applicant. Stocker agreements may not exceed $250,000.

MASC - Loan Guarantee Programs - Enhanced Diversification Loan Guarantees
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_enhanced_diversification.html
Search words: MASC, Enhanced Diversification

This program assists with the diversification, innovation or value-added activities of farmers by guaranteeing project funds borrowed from participating commercial lenders. MASC provides a 25% guarantee on the principal amount of loans approved under this program.

MASC - Loan Guarantee Programs - Manitoba Livestock Associations Loan Guarantees
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Phone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_livestock_associations.html
Search words: MASC, livestock, loan

This program assists Manitoba residents to establish livestock associations. The maximum loan for an association member is $250,000. The maximum lending limit for an association is $5 million.

MASC - Loan Guarantee Programs - Operating Credit Guarantees
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_operating_credit.html
Search words: MASC, Operating Credit

Operating Credit Guarantees provide a 25% guarantee on operating lines of credit with participating private lending institutions. The Guarantee can be used for general farm expenditures, living expenses, current year's principal and interest payments on existing loans, and in cases of emergency, limited capital purchases.

Manitoba Agri-Innovation Suite
Economic Development Initiatives
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Contact the nearest Growing Opportunities Office nearest you:
Internet: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/contact/agoffices.html
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa19s04
Search words: Manitoba Agri-Innovation Suite, Manitoba Agriculture

The goal of this program is to help Manitoba-based entrepreneurs, enterprises, cooperatives and value chains develop new innovative products from concept to market for the agri-food industry. MAIS will provide financial assistance up to a maximum of 50% of project costs, under component limits, to carry a product idea from the concept stage to the retail/commercial market.

If other government programs are involved, the contribution will be adjusted to ensure the client pays a minimum of 25% of project costs out of his/her own unencumbered funds.

Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Lending Corporate Office
Telephone: 204-726-6850
Fax: 204-726-6849
E-mail: brandon.lending@masc.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/index.html
MASC Locations Finder: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/locations.html
Search words: MASC, Manitoba agriculture

This program provides financial assistance to farmers for establishment, development and operation of agricultural enterprises. Emphasis is placed on the young, beginning farmer and farmers wanting to diversify or add value to their production. Eligible applicants include individuals, co-operatives, partnerships and corporations who are involved in a farm enterprise. The farm operation must be considered potentially viable and meet security requirements.

The following list is a sampling of some of the Lending programs offered by MASC. For a detailed listing and program information visit their Website.

Alternative Energy Loans
Bridging Generations Initiative
Comprehensive Refinancing Loans
Direct Loans
Enhanced Diversification Loan Guarantees
Environmental Enhancement Loans
Manitoba Livestock Associations Loan Guarantees
Operating Credit Guarantees
Rural Entrepreneur Assistance - REA
Stocker Loans
Manitoba Organic Transition Program - MOTP
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-745-5663
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=
aaa01s22
Search words: Organic Transition, MAFRI

This program is a three year program that applies to the 2008, 2009 and 2010 growing years to assist in the transition to organic certification. MOTP applies to producers and processors growing or processing organic grain, livestock, fruits, vegetables or any other plant, animal or food product. Producers and processors can receive reimbursement of two-thirds of the cost of their certification fees, up to $800 maximum per year.

Agriculture - Insurance
To find a Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) Insurance Office closest to your business, visit their Website locator or call or fax their Corporate Insurance Office number listed below:
Phone: 204-239-3246
Fax: 204-239-3401
E-mail: mailbox@masc.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/locations.html
Search words: MASC Offices

The following list is a sampling of some of the Insurance programs offered by MASC. For a detailed listing and program information visit their Website.

AgriInsurance
Crop Coverage Plus
Forage Restoration
Greenfeed Insurance
Organic Insurance
Pasture Insurance
Saskatoon Establishment Insurance
Vegetable Acreage Loss Insurance
Crop Coverage Plus
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_crop_coverage_plus.html
Search words: Crop Insurance, MASC

This program provides coverage on a group of crops instead of an individual crop. Coverage up to 90% of probable yield is available with this option.

Forage Restoration Insurance
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_forage_restoration.html
Search words: Forage Restoration Insurance, MASC

Forage Restoration, part of the Tame Hay and Forage Seed Insurance programs, compensates producers who lose their established tame hay or forage seed crops due to excessive moisture before October 1st. They do not pay a separate premium for Forage Restoration, but they must also have Tame Hay and/or Forage Seed Insurance.

Greenfeed Insurance
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_greenfeed.html
Search words: Greenfeed Insurance, MASC

Greenfeed Insurance covers specific annual crops grown for the purpose of being cut, baled, or silaged for livestock feed. Eligible crops include oats, barley, mixed grain, wheat, rye, field peas, triticale, millet, sorghum and sudan grass, grown alone or in a combination.

MASC - Insurance Programs - AgriInsurance
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_agriinsurance.html
Search words: AgriInsurance, MASC

AgriInsurance (formerly Production Insurance) insures all eligible crops against production losses and most crops against crop quality losses. Over 60 different crops are insurable, with producers able to select crop coverage at 50%, 70%, and 80% of their probable yields.

MASC - Insurance Programs - Hail Insurance
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_hail.html
Search words: Hail Insurance, MASC

This program provides financial assistance to Manitoba producers for losses to crops due to hail and/or accidental fire.

MASC - Other Programs - Wildlife Damage Compensation
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_wildlife_damage_compensation.html
Search words: Wildlife Compensation, MASC

This program provides compensation for damage to crops, honey products and leafcutter bee products caused by migratory waterfowl and big game. It also includes compensation for agricultural livestock killed or injured by natural predators.

Pasture Insurance
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_pasture.html
Search words: Pasture Insurance, MASC

Pasture Insurance provides additional financial assistance to tame hay producers to cover potential losses resulting from shortfalls in summer grazing capacity. Coverage is determined on the eligible livestock pastured, and claims are based on your tame hay production.

Strawberry Establishment Insurance
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Insurance Corporate Office
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_strawberry_establishment.html
Search words: Strawberry Establishment Insurance, MASC

Strawberry Establishment Insurance provides coverage to Manitoba's commercial strawberry producers who sustain losses in the establishment period due to natural causes. If you qualify, your strawberry plants can be insured over their first winter after being transplanted.

Agriculture - Other Programs and Services
AgriInvest Payments
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Phone: Toll free - 1-866-367-8506
Fax: 1-877-949-4885
Internet: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1248371801257&lang=eng
Search words: AgriInvest, Manitoba

Under this program, each year, producers can deposit up to 1.5% of their Allowable Net Sales (ANS) into an AgriInvest account and receive a matching government contribution.

AgriSuccess: Information and Learning
Farm Credit Canada
Phone: 1-888-332-3301
E-mail: csc@fcc-fac.ca
Internet: http://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/LearningCentre/journal/index.asp
Search words: Agrisuccess

AgriSuccess offers workshops, a multi-day course on farm management principles, a weekly online newsletter - AgriSuccess Express that explores Canadian agriculture news, and AgriSuccess Journal, a farm management magazine published every two months.

AgriWeb Canada
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - AAFC
Phone: 1-613-759-1000
E-mail: info@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www3.agr.gc.ca/apps/Agriweb/index-eng.cfm
Search words: AgriWeb Canada

AgriWeb is a national directory of Canadian agriculture and agri-food information resources available via the internet.

Agricultural Products - Markets Information Program
Public Information Request Service
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Phone: 1-866-367-8506
E-mail: info@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.agr.gc.ca/index_e.php?s1=info&s2=t&page=mar
Search words: Agricultural Products - Markets Information Program

This website provides links to a variety of existing information on the Internet related to agriculture and agri-food market access and trade policy information.

Alternative Crop Production
Contact GO Team Office
Industry Focus Section, Crops Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-856-9255
Fax: 204-745-5690
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa01s05
Search words: Alternative Crop Production, Manitoba Agriculture

The Go Team offices provide information on varieties, disease, insect problems and production techniques of Medicinal and Aromatic plants, spices and essential oil crops and other alternative small acreage crops.

Alternative Straw Utilization
Keith Watson, Diversification Specialist
Agri Food Innovation and Adaptation
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-622-2009
Fax: 204-638-2854
E-mail: keith.watson@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/soilwater/soil/fbd09s
08.html
Search words: alternative straw utilization, Canada/Manitoba business

This service provides information for the supply of straw for alternate uses, thereby resulting in the reduction or elimination of the need to burn straws on fields.

Business Development & Management
Mr. Keith Kyle or your local Go Team Office
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-726-6411
Fax: 204-726-6260
E-mail: Keith.Kyle@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa15s01
Search words: MAFRI, GO Team
Go Team: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/contact/agoffices

The Business Management program was created to build and strengthen individual business management practices directed at maximizing business net income through effective production, marketing, human resources, and financial management activity. It is delivered to clients through publications, seminars, training courses, software, Web Information and direct on-farm contact by Business Development Specialists.

Cereal, Oilseed Special Crop Production
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Crops Knowledge Centre
Phone: 204-745-5630
Fax: 204-745-5690
E-mail: soils&crops@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/index.html
Search words: Crops, Manitoba Agriculture

This service provides information on new varieties, disease problems and production techniques of wheat, oats, barley, rye, flax, winter wheat, triticale, corn, potato, canola, sunflowers, buckwheat, field beans, lentils and other special crops.

Elk Farming in Manitoba
Nelson Bowley
Manager - On-Farm Food Safety
Chief Veterinary Office/Food Safety Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-945-7677
Fax: 204-945-4327
E-mail: nelson.bowley@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa04s06
Search words: Elk Farming in Manitoba, Manitoba Agriculture

This service provides educational assistance to producers wanting to become involved or currently operating elk farms. The industry is regulated by Manitoba Agriculture which inspects all elk operations on an annual basis to ensure compliance with operational standards.

Equine and Bison Production
Mr. Ray Salmon, Business Development Specialist (Bison & Equine)
Livestock Knowledge Centre - Industry Focus Section
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-467-4702
Fax: 204-467-5129
E-mail: ray.salmon@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa04s08
Search words: equine production, Manitoba agriculture
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa04s04
Search words: bison production, Manitoba agriculture

Assists and promotes development of the equine and bison industries by providing technical support, services and information to producers, regional staff and industry.

Farm Debt Mediation Service
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - AAFC
Phone: Toll free 1-866-452-5556
Internet: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1196274864620&lang=e
Search words: Farm Debt Mediation Service

This service provides insolvent farmers and their creditors with mediation services pursuant to the federal Farm Debt Mediation Act to help them arrive at a mutually satisfactory agreement. The service is private, confidential and economical.

Farm Machinery Board
Mr. Randy Ozunko, Program Specialist
Boards, Commissions & Legislation
Phone: 204-945-3856
Fax: 204-948-1489
E-mail: Randy.Ozunko@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa14s01
Search words: Farm Machinery Board

Administers the Manitoba Farm Machinery and Equipment Act which assists producers with problems related to their farm machinery, be that financial, application or mechanical.

Food Development Centre
Alphonsus Utioh, Manager, Product & Process Development
Food Development Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: Toll free 1-800-870-1044
Fax: 204-239-3180
E-mail: alphonsus.utioh@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/fdc/
Search words: Food Development Centre

A research and development centre fully equipped to help small and large food, beverage and animal feed businesses, processors and budding entrepreneurs who want professional help to successfully compete in the food industry. This service provides agri-food seminars and workshops on marketing, labelling, introduction of new equipment, and a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point overview and implementation program. Professional services and technical expertise are provided to help start or expand a new or existing food business or product.

Forage Crop Production
Mr. Glenn Friesen, Business Development Specialist - Forage
Industry Focus Section, Crops Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-745-5672
Fax: 204-745-5690
E-mail: glenn.friesen@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa02s02
Search words: Forage Crop Production

To encourage efficient and economic forage and grassland production, conservation and utilization through extension and technology transfer programs.

Fruit Production
Anthony Mintenko, Business Development Specialist - Food Crops
Industry Focus Section, Crops Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-745-5675
Fax: 204-745-5690
E-mail: anthony.mintenko@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa01s10
Search words: Fruit Production, Manitoba Agriculture

This service encourages economic and sustainable commercial production and marketing of domestic fruit as well as development and commercialization of native and/or non-traditional fruit.

Greenhouse Production
Mr. Brian Hunt, Business Development Specialist - Greenhouse/Nutraceuticals
Industry Focus Section, Crops Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-856-9255
Fax: 204-745-5690
E-mail: brian.hunt@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa01s08
Search words: Greenhouse Production, Manitoba Agriculture

The objective of this program is to encourage the economic commercial production of greenhouse crops and to assist potential commercial greenhouse growers. It provides technical assistance in a variety of methods such as publications, resource lists, demonstrations, seminars, direct contact and telephone inquiries.

Manitoba Farm Mediation Board (MFMB)
Mr. Robert (Bob) McKenzie, Program Specialist
Boards, Commissions & Legislation
Phone: 204-945-0357 or Toll free 1-800-282-8069
Fax: 204-945-1489
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.
php?name=aaa25s01
Search words: Manitoba Farm Mediation Board

This service provides financial counseling and mediation assistance to farmers facing foreclosure or financial difficulty. If necessary, the MFMB will guarantee the farmer's loan or lease payments to help facilitate the agreement between the farmer and the farmer's creditors. The MFMB requires that the farm has reasonable probability of being viable.

Manitoba Organic Directory
Manitoba Agriculture, Food & Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Internet: Contact local Go Team Office http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/contact/agoffices.html
Internet: Publication http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/organic/pdf/organicdirectory08.pdf
Search words: Manitoba Organic Directory

Organic food directory is available, online or in Hard Copy, to help consumers, restaurants, retailers, food handlers and processors locate local certified organic food sources in Manitoba.

Market Information and Industry Analysis - Crops
Rose Anne Burdeny, Extension Coordinator
Industry Intelligence section, Knowledge Management Branch
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-945-3503
Fax: 204-948-2844
E-mail: RoseAnne.Burdeny@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa19s03
Search words: Market Information and Industry Analysis - Crops

Provide current and reliable statistical information and market analysis, market reports, historical trends, short and long-term outlook and economic forecasts specific to the crops industry.

Organiculture
Mr. John Hollinger, Business Development Specialist - Organic
Agri-Industry Development and Innovation, Crops, Industry Focus
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-745-5643
Fax: 204-745-5690
E-mail: john.hollinger@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/organic/index.html
Search words: Organiculture, Manitoba

This website provides information on all aspects of the organic agriculture sector, from production to marketing.

Potato Production
Mr. Tom Gonsalves, Business Development Specialist - Potato
Crops Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-745-5671
Fax: 204-745-5690
E-mail: tom.gonsalves@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa01s07
Search words: Potato, Manitoba Agriculture, programs

This program assists existing and new commercial growers with potato production information via fact sheets, meetings, field tours, demonstration trials, and potato extension events.

Sheep and Goat Extension Service
Business Development Specialist - Sheep and Goats
Livestock Knowledge Centre - Industry Focus Section
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-945-7557
Fax: 204-945-4327
E-mail: mamoon.rashid@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa07s01
Search words: Sheep and Goat Extension Service

This service provides sheep and goat producers with production and marketing information, and to assist in development of new products and value added initiatives to capture increased income and profits.

Prairie Shelterbelt Program
AAFC-PFRA - Shelterbelt Centre
Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - AAFC
Phone: 1-866-766-2284
E-mail: agroforestry@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1186517615847&lang=e
Search words: Prairie Shelterbelt Program

The Prairie Shelterbelt Program (PSP) provides technical services and tree and shrub seedlings for establishment of shelterbelts and other agroforestry, conservation and reclamation projects on agricultural and eligible lands.

Swine Extension/Industry Development Service
Robyn Harte, Business Development Specialist - Swine
Livestock Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food & Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-945-5402
Fax: 204-945-4327
E-mail: robyn.harte@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa08s04
Search words: Swine, Manitoba agriculture, livestock

The objective of this program is to provide technical support, services and information to producers, regional staff and industry for the purpose of enhancing the productive viability of Manitoba's pork industry.

Vegetable Production
Brian Hunt, Business Development Specialist - Vegetable
Industry Focus Section
Crops Knowledge Centre
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 204-856-9255
Fax: 204-745-5690
E-mail: brian.hunt@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa01s09
Search words: programs and services, Vegetable production, Manitoba Agriculture

This service encourages economic production, storage and marketing of commercially grown vegetables as well as advising on pest management.

Non-Agricultural Businesses
Non-Agricultural Financial Assistance
Business Start Program (BSP)
Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade
Small Business Development Branch
c/o Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre
Phone: 204-945-7721 or call Toll-free in Manitoba 1-800-665-2019
Fax: 204-983-3852
E-mail: margaret.kelly@canadabusiness.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.canadabusiness.mb.ca/resource/File/Manitoba_Business_Start_Program__Loan_Application_ _General_Information_and_Instructions.pdf
Search words: Business Start Program

Business Start loans, up to a maximum of $30,000, are available to new owner-managed business across Manitoba. Loans are provided through participating banks and credit unions and guaranteed by the Manitoba Government. A Business Start loan can provide funding for business registration or incorporation costs, equipment and inventory purchases, promotional costs and working capital needs. Loan terms include an attractive prime-plus-one per cent interest rate and a one-year deferral of principal repayment. The program also provides entrepreneurial training through a free three-day Business Planning Workshop, which is mandatory for all Business Start loan applicants. A comprehensive business plan must be submitted with the loan application.

Community and Business Development - Feasibility Studies Program
Manitoba Agricultural, Food and Rural Initiatives
Phone: 1-800-567-7334
Internet: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/ri/community/ria01s01.html
Search words: Community and Business Development - Feasibility Studies Program

Approval for funding must be received before commencing the study.

The Feasibility Studies Program is flexible, but generally will provide up to 50% cost-shared funding to hire an independent consultant for a financial, marketing or preliminary engineering analysis, development of a business plan, and ISO or Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification.



Community Futures Program (CFP)
Western Economic Diversification Canada - WD
Internet: http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/1066/
Search words: Community Futures, Canada Manitoba
(Call the C/MBSC Toll free at 1-800-665-2019 to find the Community Futures Office for the service location nearest you.)

Independent, non-profit corporations that provide business counseling, business information seminars, training in self-employment skills, access to market information, and business loans to help entrepreneurs create new businesses or to assist businesses expand. Loan amounts are up to $150,000 and are approved by the CFDC Board of Directors.

MASC - Loan Guarantee Programs - Rural Entrepreneur Assistance (REA) Program
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation - MASC
Phone: 1-800-282-8069 Extension 2180
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_rural_entrepreneur_assistance.html
Search words: Rural Entrepreneur Assistance (REA) Component

This program guarantees a percentage of individual business capital loans between $10,000 and $200,000. Loans are offered and administered by participating banks and credit unions for ten year terms at Prime 1% interest rate. The applicant will be required to contribute 20% of the total project costs in the form of a cash contribution, land, buildings, equipment, inventory and/or incremental assets that would be employed in the business. Loans are to be used for new enterprises or the enhancement of existing operations but not for renovations or cosmetic changes to building, land signs and promotional material or refinancing of existing debt.

MASC - Loan Guarantee Programs - Rural Small Business Operating Credit Guarantee
Elaine Kendall
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation
Telephone: 204-746-7509
Internet: http://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_ocg_rural_small_business.html

Rural Small Business Operating Credit Guarantee program provides guarantees on lines of credit, up to a maximum amount of $200,000, obtained from participating lending institutions. Loans can be used for purchases of inventory, financing of receivables, and to cover the costs of most other common day-to-day business expenses.

Young Rural Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Initiative
Manitoba Agriculture, Food & Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: 1-204-761-0551
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?
name=aaa16s01
Application Form: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/pdf
/aaa16s01.pdf
Search words: Young Rural Aboriginal Entrepreneurship, Manitoba

This loan program is targeted to rural Aboriginal youth, under the age of 40, who are considering starting a business in Rural Manitoba. To find out more about eligibility and program details, interested individuals should contact their local GO Team office http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/contact/agoffices.html.

Non-Agricultural Programs and Services
Community Enterprise Development (CED) Tax Credit Program
Economic Development Initiatives Knowledge Centre
Phone: 204-945-2157 or Toll Free: 1-800-567-7334
E-mail: ruralinits@gov.mb.ca
Internet: http://web2.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/programs/index.php?name=aaa21s04
Search words: Community Enterprise Development (CED) Tax Credit Program

This program encourages Manitobans to invest in enterprises in their communities by providing a tax incentive, while providing community-based enterprises with access to equity capital. Investors receive a 30% personal income tax credit on a maximum annual investment of $30,000 (up to $9,000 in tax credits). Eligible enterprises receive a maximum of $1,000,000 in repayable capital. Projects requiring larger amounts of capital may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Economic Developmental Services
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives - MAFRI
Phone: Toll free 1-800-567-7334
Internet: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/intro/about10.html
Search words: Economic Development Initiatives, MAFRI

This service provides community economic development and business consulting support to rural Manitoba businesses and local communities"