The Ontario Water Buffalo Company in Hastings County is set to receive up to $200,000 from the Dairy Processors Modernization Initiative. This funding will help the business increase milk production and improve pasteurization efficiency, contributing to safer and more efficient dairy processing.
“Our government values small farms and farmers,” said Ric Bresee, MPP for Hastings – Lennox and Addington. “Initiatives like this are another example of how our government is working to improve food security and support small farmers in their efforts to expand their operations.”
The Dairy Processors Modernization Initiative offers cost-shared funding of up to $200,000 for eligible dairy processors, including those handling cow, goat, sheep, and water buffalo milk. Funds can be used for equipment upgrades, staff training, and other improvements. The program is part of the $8-million Sustainable Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a federal-provincial initiative aimed at enhancing innovation, competitiveness, and food safety in Canada’s agricultural sector.
The Ontario Water Buffalo Company plans to use the funding to streamline operations, improve food traceability, and create local jobs. Applications for the program remain open until fully subscribed, supporting Ontario’s growing dairy industry and local farmers.
Written by Emily Chatwood
