Starting or expanding a perennial crop operation in Prince Edward Island takes time and money. Trees, vines, and bushes need years to produce full yields, and equipment costs can add up quickly. The Perennial Crop Development Program from the Province of PEI helps farmers manage these costs through two main streams: Establishment and Efficiency.
This guide explains who can apply for each stream, what expenses are covered, and how to choose the right option for your project.
The Perennial Crop Development Program supports long-term growth in perennial crops such as fruit trees, berries, and other crops that grow for many years. The program is divided into two funding streams, each with its own focus and funding limits.
Both streams aim to strengthen PEI’s perennial crop sector by making farms more competitive and sustainable.
The Establishment stream is for farmers who are starting new perennial crops or expanding their current acreage.
You may qualify if you are:
The Establishment stream covers costs such as:
This stream is best for projects focused on planting or early development.
The Efficiency stream helps established growers improve their harvest, storage, and processing systems.
Applicants must meet the same requirements as the Establishment stream:
The Efficiency stream covers:
Choose this stream if your crops are producing and you need better infrastructure or equipment.
The main difference is the stage of your project.
Pick Establishment if you are:
Pick Efficiency if you are:
Some farms may use both streams over time, but not for the same expenses.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter PEI agriculture programs based on your crop, sales, and project stage.
Applying to the wrong stream
If you submit planting costs to the Efficiency stream, your application will likely be rejected. Make sure your expenses fit the stream’s purpose.
Not planning for repayment
Both streams offer repayable contributions, not grants. Budget for repayment before you apply.
Missing the sales threshold
If you cannot show $20,000 in CRA-reported farm sales, you may not be eligible.
Lacking a business plan as a new farmer
Future Farmer Program 2.0 participants must provide a business plan focused on perennial crop production.
Q: Is PEI perennial crop funding a grant or a loan?
Both streams offer repayable funding. This means you must pay back the money. It may be a loan or another type of repayable contribution. Exact repayment terms are set by the Province and may change. Check the official PEI program page for details.
Q: Can Indigenous farmers apply for these programs?
Yes. Mi’kmaq First Nations and other Indigenous groups are eligible.
Q: Can I apply if my farm is not yet profitable?
You need at least $20,000 in gross farm sales or you must be enrolled in Future Farmer Program 2.0 with an approved business plan.
Q: Are building upgrades eligible under both streams?
No. Building upgrades, like cold storage improvements, are only covered under the Efficiency stream.
Q: Is there a fixed application deadline?
Application deadlines may change. Always check the official PEI government page for the latest information.
GrantHub tracks many active grant and repayable funding programs across Canada, including PEI agriculture programs. Use it to find options that fit your farm’s needs.
If you plan a perennial crop project in PEI, start by deciding if your costs are for establishment or efficiency improvements. Confirm your eligibility, sales level, and ability to repay the funding.
For more planning tips, see:
Visit GrantHub to find PEI perennial crop funding programs that fit your needs.
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