REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwire) - Farm Credit Canada's (FCC) AgriSpirit Fund application period is now open. Now in its ninth year, the $1 million dollar fund will be awarded to rural community groups across Canada to support various capital projects. Registered charities, non-profit organizations and municipal bodies interested in funding this year are encouraged to visit www.agrispirit.ca for eligibility requirements and to apply online.
"FCC is committed to enhancing rural communities," says Kellie Garrett, FCC Senior Vice-President, Strategy, Knowledge and Reputation. "Since 2004, we're proud to have provided $5.5 million in AgriSpirit funding to over 600 capital community projects across Canada. Through the FCC AgriSpirit Fund, we're able to support community groups that are making life even better for rural residents every day."
Every year, FCC awards rural community groups between $5,000 and $25,000 in AgriSpirit funding for various community improvement initiatives. From purchasing equipment for emergency services and recreation centres to building care homes and playgrounds, FCC AgriSpirit funding supports key projects that enhance the community. All projects are based in communities that have populations fewer than 100,000.
For a project to be considered for funding, it must meet specific criteria and be completed before December 31, 2014. FCC will announce the selected projects in December 2012. A listing of past projects that have received FCC AgriSpirit funding can be found here.
In 2011, FCC received 1,146 applications for AgriSpirit funding and gave $1 million to 120 community groups across Canada - a strong indication that rural Canadians are passionate about community enhancement. This year's application period closes on June 18, 2012.
"Giving back to the communities where our customers and employees live and work is a vital part of who we are as an organization," says Garrett. "It's amazing to see the spirit of volunteerism thriving in rural Canada. Through the FCC AgriSpirit Fund, we're able to fuel this spirit and positively impact hundreds of communities from coast to coast."
As Canada's leading agriculture lender, FCC is advancing the business of agriculture. With a healthy portfolio of more than $22 billion and 19 consecutive years of portfolio growth, FCC is strong and stable - committed to serving the industry through all cycles. FCC provides financing, insurance, software, learning programs and other business services to producers, agribusinesses and agri-food operations. FCC employees are passionate about agriculture and committed to the success of customers and the industry. For more information, visit www.fcc.ca.
As one of Imagine Canada's Caring Companies, FCC gives one per cent of its profits to charities and not-for-profit organizations.
