Government of Canada Creating Jobs and Growth Through Investments in Agri-food Sector Skills

CAMBRIDGE, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 10, 2012) - The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), announced today an investment of up to $2.3 million for Conestoga College to help meet the needs of the food and beverage manufacturers in southern Ontario through its Institute of Food Processing Technology.

"Our government is committed to investing in jobs and growth in Ontario's food and beverage processing sector," said Minister Goodyear. "Our contribution to Conestoga College will help enhance the food processing and manufacturing workforce, which will not only address the skills shortage in this sector, but also grow the competitive advantage of the region."

With this contribution through FedDev Ontario's Prosperity Initiative, Conestoga College will equip its new Institute of Food Processing Technology (IFPT) with modern food processing lines that simulate real work environments. The hands-on training provided by the Institute, using modern manufacturing equipment, will enhance the education experience of its students. It will also produce a more highly skilled group of graduates, who will be able to meet the current and future demands of southern Ontario's food processing industry.

"This investment is tremendous news for Conestoga, for the community and for Ontario," said John Tibbits, President of Conestoga. "The advanced education and training programs that will be delivered through the new Institute of Food Processing Technology will provide many opportunities for students seeking successful careers as well as addressing the needs of one of Canada's largest industries."

FedDev Ontario's Prosperity Initiative is designed to encourage businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and post-secondary institutions in southern Ontario to undertake projects that will result in a more productive, diversified, and competitive economy. Applications for funding are being accepted and assessed on an ongoing basis. For more information, please refer to the Program Guidelines available on the FedDev Ontario website at www.feddevontario.gc.ca.

For more information about Conestoga College and the Institute of Food Processing Technology, visit: http://ifpt.ca/.

Created in 2009, FedDev Ontario supports the southern Ontario economy by building on the region's strengths and creating opportunities for jobs and economic growth. The Agency has launched a number of initiatives to create a Southern Ontario Advantage and place the region in a strong position to compete in the global economy. These initiatives are designed to encourage partnerships and support projects that help the region's businesses and communities become more competitive, innovative, and diversified. To learn more, please visit www.feddevontario.gc.ca or call 1-866-593-5505.