Calls for proposals for the Provincial Government’s recently announced Development of Secondary Forestry Processing Innovation Pilot Projects are now open.
This initiative, announced on June 12, is providing $400,000 to support up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs for approved industry sector business proposals up to a maximum of $100,000. Project proposals must include the introduction of innovative products or the commencement of secondary processing that primarily utilizes locally grown wood.
Project applications may include finished products, such as engineered wood products including millwork, cabinets, furniture, pallets and containers, and other wood products or applications involving use of remanufactured wood products.
The application form is now available at the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website. The deadline for proposals is September 30, 2020.
These initiatives are part of a plan to support employment in rural communities and help open new markets and products for renewable resource-based businesses during the COVID-19 global pandemic, including $9.6 million in funding to create jobs and develop forest sector products and markets.
The forestry industry is valued at approximately $380 million annually and directly and indirectly employs over 5,000 people in pulp and paper, sawmilling, harvesting and value-added industries.
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“The forest sector in Newfoundland and Labrador continues to play a crucial role in supporting the economic well-being of many communities throughout the province. This significant investment supports our forest industry workers while demonstrating our forest sector remains active and poised to pursue new opportunities for growth, particularly in forestry innovation and secondary processing of wood products.”
The Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
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Learn more
Minister Byrne Announces $9.6 Million for Plan to Develop Forest Sector and Create Jobs
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