Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes launches a new Agri-Innovation Loan

KAWARTHA LAKES: On March 15th, the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes (CFKL), in partnership with the Business Community Development Corporation (BCDC), announced a new loan program, geared to support local rural agricultural innovators and entrepreneurs in search of new ways to grow, produce, manufacture or distribute good food, from farm to table. Agriculture is a leading economic driver in Kawartha Lakes, so a thriving rural economy based on agriculture, is closely aligned with the founding inspiration of the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes. Start-up family agriculture and effective farm management has been a strong and long-standing tradition in this community for centuries. The goal of this agri-innovation loan program is to encourage and support this tradition to continue and strengthen for years and maybe generations to come.

“The BCDC is proud to partner and collaborate with CFKL in this new and innovative funding program. These endeavours help to form the backbone of new and exciting economic development initiatives in our region. We are happy to provide funding to assist entrepreneurs in this important business sector. The goal is to ensure we sustain and develop new ideas for innovation and growth in Agriculture, help diversify their business models and grow revenues for the future,” explained Vince Killen , Executive Director, BCDC

With a low-interest social investment fund, this loan program is geared to assist local farmers and entrepreneurs interested in food services, new products and innovations, providing access to funding which otherwise would not be feasible or available. Loans between $10,000 and $25,000 are being offered with flexible repayment terms and competitive interest rates to ensure this critical funding gap is filled.

“It’s exciting for the Foundation to be able to offer the Agri-Innovation loan program, to help Kawartha Lakes’ farmers diversify and innovate. We’re looking for applications from people who have a solid business plan but need some capital to get the idea moving forward,” said Harry Stoddart, CFKL Secretary.

Loan proposals are limited only by the applicant’s imagination. They must be innovative in nature by design, and must be supported by a sound business plan or an intriguing idea with achievable goals and expectations. The Community Foundation team is here to help, ensuring accessible consultation and streamlined application and approval.

The Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes is here to help create a meaningful and lasting change in our community. The Foundation is a reliable resource to connect you to the knowledge, opportunities and partners you need to make a difference in Kawartha Lakes. The Foundation’s focus is on strengthening local philanthropic networks, by connecting people who care with the creation of lasting legacies which address gaps in local human services, public infrastructure, agriculture and community economic development. Together with its fundholders and partners, the Community Foundation supports and strengthens local initiatives, making a difference and enhancing the quality of life in this community.

If you have a great idea and want to consider a loan application or you want to learn more about the Foundation and its philanthropy, contact Margaret Cunningham, at 705.731.9775 or email: info@kawarthafoundation.ca. For Foundation information, click on www.kawarthafoundation.ca

https://www.kawarthafoundation.ca/