May 29, 2024 · Debert, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
In Nova Scotia, an innovative agri-food business is growing - and it's providing more than food.
Maritime Gourmet Mushrooms Inc. is also cultivating jobs and a greener future. At its flagship farm in Great Village, the company grows and harvests exotic mushrooms for retail. Additionally, it supplies ready-to-bloom substrate - a wood-based nutrient block on which indoor mushrooms are grown - to clients across Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Ontario and the northeastern United States. It's part of the vital agri-food sector that provides fresh, healthy food to Atlantic Canadians, while supporting farmers, contributing to food stability, and strengthening rural economies.
Big demand for a small business
Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced a repayable contribution of $950,000 to help Maritime Gourmet Mushrooms Inc. expand, automate and adopt cleaner energy.
The company is building a second facility in Debert, Nova Scotia which will triple production of fresh mushrooms and substrate to keep up with customer orders. ACOA's support will help the company purchase and install specialized equipment at the new facility, such as an automated bagger, a high pressure steam boiler and robotic arms. The contribution will also help purchase solar panels, moving the company closer to its goal of using only renewable energy sources. The new facility will allow Maritime Gourmet Mushrooms Inc. to double its current workforce which will create new jobs in the community.
Today's announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to help rural businesses and communities grow and thrive by supporting sustainable agriculture, innovation and job creation.
