Many farmland owners in British Columbia want to see their land farmed but are not sure how to find a reliable tenant or set up a fair lease. The BC Land Matching Program helps by connecting landowners with new and expanding farmers. The program also supports both sides through the leasing process. It is delivered under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). The program focuses on land access, not direct cash grants.
The BC Land Matching Program (BCLMP) is a land access and matchmaking service run by the Government of British Columbia. Its main goal is to increase farmland use. It does this by helping landowners lease land to farmers who are ready to operate a farm business.
Key points for landowners:
The program supports:
The BC Land Matching Program supports landowners at several stages of the leasing process.
As a landowner, you can post your property on the program’s online land matching platform. Your listing can include:
Farmers across BC can view these listings and express interest.
Program coordinators help screen potential matches and arrange introductions. This saves time and reduces the risk of working with a farmer who is not ready or not aligned with your goals.
Support may include:
One of the biggest barriers to leasing farmland is uncertainty around legal and financial terms. The BC Land Matching Program provides guidance on:
The program does not replace legal advice. It helps both sides understand common structures, timelines, and responsibilities before signing anything.
You can still use the BC Land Matching Program even if you already found a farmer on your own. The program offers business and agreement development support to help finalize the lease and reduce future conflicts.
If you want to see what other agriculture programs you may qualify for, use GrantHub to check your eligibility in BC and across Canada.
You may be eligible if:
You do not need to be a farming operation yourself. The program is designed for landholders who want someone else to farm their land.
The BC Land Matching Program does not provide rent payments or subsidies. Your income comes from the lease you negotiate with the farmer.
Verbal agreements create risk. The program strongly encourages formal leases or licences to occupy to protect both parties.
Zoning, water access, or Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) rules should be discussed early to avoid failed matches.
Good matches take time. Landowners who provide detailed listings and flexible terms usually have better results.
Q: Is the BC Land Matching Program a grant?
No. It is a land access and business support program, not a funding or cash grant.
Q: Does it cost anything to use the program as a landowner?
Services are generally free or subsidized under Sustainable CAP, making it accessible for most landowners.
Q: Can I use the program if my land is only available short term?
Yes. Short-term and trial leases are common, especially for new farmers.
Q: What types of farm agreements are supported?
The program supports leases, licences to occupy, and other farmland access arrangements.
Q: Do I need to find a farmer first?
No. You can list your land and receive matchmaking support, or get help even if you already found a farmer independently.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and support programs across Canada—check which ones match your land, province, and goals.
If you are considering leasing farmland, the BC Land Matching Program is often the safest first step. It reduces risk, saves time, and helps create clear agreements. As you explore land access options, visit GrantHub to see which other agriculture and land-related programs may fit your needs in British Columbia and across Canada.
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