Canadian VDB Grains receives grant to expand storage capacity
CANADA – Van Der Burgt Grains (VDB) has secured a C$500,000 grant (approximately US$ 375,000) from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund to support a transformative C$7.2 million (US$5.4 million) project aimed at expanding its storage capacity and enhancing its technological capabilities.
The initiative includes the construction of a new grain storage facility and the installation of solar panels and radar sensing equipment, positioning the company for significant growth and market diversification.
The project will enable VDB Grains to increase its grain volumes and expand its market reach throughout Ontario. By incorporating advanced sensing technology and renewable energy solutions, the company aims to boost operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
“We are grateful to the province for supporting this project that has allowed us to continue to expand and meet the needs of farmers across our region,” said Steve Feeney, chief financial officer of VDB Grains.
Feeney added that the project has allowed VDB to provide grain producers with access to diversified global grain markets and ensured that we remain resilient in the face of trade and economic uncertainty.
Founded in 2007 and based in Mitchell, Ontario, VDB Grains is an independent, family-owned grain trading and storage company.
The firm specializes in purchasing, conditioning, and supplying a variety of grains and oilseeds to both local and global markets. With the new storage facility and technological advancements, VDB Grains is set to strengthen its position as a critical player in the grain industry.
Speaking about the grant, Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington said that the grant is another example of the provincial government investing in the agricultural sector and rural communities.
“Our local agri-businesses are important economic drivers locally, and across the province. Ontario’s agri-food sector contributes $51 billion annually to our provincial economy, up $3 billion since 2018,” MPP Rae said.
Vic Fedeli, minister of Economic Development commend the government for supporting local manufacturing across the province and create good-paying jobs in rural communities, Job Creation and Trade.
“We thank V.B.D. grains for their commitment to Perth County and for strengthening Ontario’s agricultural manufacturing sector,” he added.
Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
