The Manitoba government has launched the new Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program, which supports activities to strengthen development and leadership in the agriculture and food industry.

“Our government is honoured to support projects and initiatives made possible by Mr. Cherban’s generous donation to MARD,” said Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Blaine Pedersen. “Mr. Cherban’s support and passion for agriculture will have a significant impact for years to come.”

Cherban worked in the grain-handling industry and farmed in the Swan Valley region. He passed away in January 2013. He directed that proceeds of his estate be given to Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development to support agriculture in Manitoba and $450,000 from the estate was used to create the Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program.

The program will provide up to $50,000 per year for projects of local non-profit organizations, governments and academic institutions for innovative provincewide initiatives. Increasing public awareness of the importance of agriculture to the economy, building public trust for agriculture and processing, and supporting skills development of agriculture and food-related career opportunities are some of the initiatives the program will deliver.

The program will be administered by the Manitoba 4-H Council Inc.

“We are honoured to partner with Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development on this generous grant opportunity,” said Candace Tolton, president, Manitoba 4-H Council Inc. “4-H Manitoba looks forward to making new connections and witnessing innovative projects that will advance the growth and sustainability of agriculture and food here in Manitoba.”

The deadline for the 2021 annual intake of the Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program (ACAIDP) is Feb. 28, 2021.

For more information, including how to apply, visit www.manitoba/ca/agriculture/ACAIDP and the Manitoba 4-H Council Inc. website at https://4h.mb.ca/alexander-cherban-acaidp/.