The Canadian federal government is launching the $1 billion Food-link Fund to strengthen Canada’s food distribution systems, competition and security.
The Food-Link Fund is a key component of the $3.2-billion National Food Security Strategy PM Mark Carney announced in June.
The Fund will invest in critical infrastructure to move food more efficiently from producers to consumers.
At the same time, farmers, food businesses and independent retailers will have greater access to markets and distribution networks.
“Strong food supply chains help get more affordable high-quality food to Canadians, no matter where they live,” said Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
“The Food-Link Fund will help build the infrastructure we need to move food more efficiently, open new markets for producers, and give independent grocers more options.”
Supporting food infrastructure
The Food-Link Fund will support both large-scale and regional solutions through two programs: the Food Terminal Fund and the Food Hub Program.
The Food Terminal Fund will support the development and expansion of wholesale food terminals. These facilities provide farmers, food businesses and independent retailers with a one-stop shop to sell and source products outside of supply systems controlled by large retailers.
The federal government says this could help increase retail competition while giving consumers more affordable choices.
Meanwhile, the Food Hub Program will support the creation and expansion of regional food hubs across Canada. These hubs will give food producers access to the storage, processing, distribution and market connections needed to bring more locally produced food to communities.
Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, said the investment in food distribution infrastructure will bolster regional supply chains and bring more fresh, affordable food into Canadian homes.
“Canadians deserve a food system that is reliable, efficient and affordable,” said Robertson. “Through the Food Terminal Fund, we are investing in the facilities that help move food more efficiently across Canada, strengthening regional supply chains, and improving access to fresh, affordable food.”
He added that modern food distribution infrastructure can create more resilient communities and support the goals of Canada’s National Food Security Strategy.
Applications open October 14
The Food-Link Fund application intake period begins on October 14, 2026 and closes on December 11, 2026.
Applicants first need to submit an Expression of Interest that will be reviewed and approved before submitting a full proposal.
Eligible projects under the Food Hub Program include:
- Cold storage
- Transportation
- Food processing
- Packaging
- Digital system
- Facility upgrades
“Strong regional food systems are essential to ensuring producers have the connections and infrastructure they need to bring more Canadian food to market,” said Daniel Gobeil, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Chicoutimi—Le Fjord, Quebec.
“The Food-Link Fund will help strengthen these connections, expand access to storage, processing and distribution, and create new opportunities for producers and food businesses across Quebec and Canada.”
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