PQB Fruit Tree Foundation
Launch of Parksville Sunday Farmers Market
Launched in May 2026, the food-focused market runs Sundays from May to October at the McMillan Arts Centre and MAC…
Food Security and Agrifood
Hatch + Hype entrepreneurial strategy. Image by Sara Kempner.
Food Security and Agrifood
A secure, local food supply is the foundation of a resilient coastal economy. We invest in projects that help entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses, and producers grow the agrifood sector across the communities we serve.
We invite partnership proposals for public infrastructure and initiatives that strengthen food security through regenerative agriculture, sustainable food production, and local capacity. We are especially interested in proposals that diversify and shorten the supply chains our region depends on, and that strengthen food security and sovereignty for the rural and First Nations communities furthest from urban centres.
Through investments in community-owned assets and public infrastructure, we help build a food system that can thrive over the long term: one that feeds people closer to home, adapts to a changing climate, supports good jobs across the region, and keeps the value of what we grow and harvest in the communities that produce it.
Huu-ay-aht First Nations
Hydroponic Farming Business Start-up
The project includes the installation of a modular farming facility equipped with production, preparation, and cold storage space. Using hydroponic…
Nanoose Economic Development LP, on behalf of Snaw-Naw-As First Nation
Snaw-Naw-As Food Security & Farm Hub
The site will serve as a long-term asset for local food production, training, and entrepreneurship, advancing the Snaw-Naw-As First Nation’s…
What Projects Do We Fund?
Projects We Fund
- Local and regional food hubs, processing facilities, commercial kitchens, cold storage, market infrastructure, and other shared assets that can be accessed by multiple producers or food businesses
- Agritech innovation that improves productivity or market access for local producers
- Sustainable aquaculture, seafood processing, or marine-based food initiatives
- Expansion of farmer’s markets, public markets, online marketplaces, and other initiatives that connect local producers with customers
- Regenerative agriculture initiatives that are commercially viable
Projects We Do Not Fund
- Food production projects that are non-commercial and/or not financially sustainable
- Projects that increase dependency on transportation and distribution of food from other regions of British Columbia or globally
- Community gardens, local food programs, or educational initiatives that do not provide clear economic development outcomes
Start the Conversation
However far along you are – an early idea, a plan taking shape, or a proposal nearly ready – the best next step is a conversation. That is where we like to start, and where the best projects usually begin.
We welcome every chance to work alongside you as your project takes shape. Reach out before you start a funding application, while the plan is still forming. When you share where you’re headed, we can help shape it with you and build a strong application together.
We’re available by phone or online, and we’re glad to meet in person, welcoming the opportunity to meet in your community.
