If you run a supply-managed poultry or egg farm, funding large upgrades can be a challenge. The Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program (PEFIP) — Stream 1 offers federal support for on-farm projects that improve efficiency, biosecurity, sustainability, and food safety across Canada.
This guide explains how to apply for the Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program, what Stream 1 covers, and how to avoid common mistakes that can delay your approval.
The Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program (Stream 1) is a federal, reimbursement-based program delivered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). It provides non-repayable contributions covering up to 70% of eligible project costs for on-farm investments.
Key facts:
The maximum funding you can receive is based on your share of provincial quota or production holdings as of January 1, 2021.
To apply for the Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program (Stream 1), you must meet all of the following criteria:
Not eligible:
If you were 35 or younger on January 1, 2021, you may qualify for a higher cost-share under Stream 2, which is a separate intake.
Stream 1 supports on-farm capital investments that modernize operations and improve performance. Eligible expenses typically fall into these categories:
Costs must be directly related to on-farm production and supported by invoices and proof of payment.
For more details on eligible expenses across Canadian grants and loans, see:
What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans
Applying for the Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program takes planning. You also need proper documentation and clear cost tracking. Here’s how the Stream 1 application process works:
Your maximum funding depends on your quota or production share as of January 1, 2021. This allocation sets the total amount you can receive over the life of the program.
Write a simple project plan. List the equipment or infrastructure you want to buy. Explain how your project will improve efficiency, biosecurity, or sustainability. Include the total project cost and your timeline.
Collect all necessary documents before you apply:
Send your application directly to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the program’s intake process. Funding is reimbursement-based, so you must show proof that you paid for eligible expenses.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if Stream 1 or Stream 2 is right for you, based on your age, quota, and province.
Once your claim is approved, AAFC reimburses eligible costs up to 70%, within your funding cap.
Assuming all farm upgrades qualify
Only on-farm, production-related investments are eligible. Office renovations or non-production assets are usually excluded.
Missing proof of payment
Quotes alone are not enough. AAFC requires paid invoices and supporting documents.
Ignoring quota-based limits
Even strong projects can be capped if you exceed your allocated funding amount.
Confusing Stream 1 and Stream 2
Applying under the wrong stream can delay processing or reduce your funding rate.
Q: How much funding can I receive under Stream 1?
Up to 70% of eligible project costs, capped based on your quota or production share as of January 1, 2021.
Q: Can I apply if my project started before approval?
Yes. Eligible costs incurred on or after March 19, 2019 may be reimbursed if they meet program rules.
Q: Is Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program funding taxable?
Non-repayable contributions are usually considered taxable income. Check with your accountant to be sure.
Q: Can new entrants apply?
Yes, if you hold loaned quota or operate under a whole-farm lease and meet all other eligibility criteria.
Q: Can I combine this with other grants?
In some cases, yes. Stacking rules apply, and total government assistance cannot exceed program limits.
See also: How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules
Getting funding through the Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program is possible with good planning and careful record-keeping. GrantHub tracks hundreds of agriculture and farm funding programs across Canada. You can use GrantHub to compare your options and see which programs fit your farm’s needs. Start preparing your application now to improve your operation and make the most of available support.
Looking for more grants? Visit GrantHub’s main platform to discover the latest funding opportunities for Canadian farms and agri-businesses.
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