Government of Canada supporting Indigenous-led partnership to create new business opportunities and jobs in Alberta’s agriculture sector (CNW Group/Prairies Economic Development Canada)
ELK POINT — On May 3, Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced $5 million in federal funding through the Community Economic Development and Diversification fund for the Askiy Hemp Limited Partnership (Askiy) to construct a new industrial hemp processing plant in Elk Point, Alberta. When complete, the plant will process 40,000 tons of hemp stalk annually for use in a variety of products including textiles, building materials, fertilizer, and paper. Increasing demand for hemp will provide a new revenue stream for farmers and diversify Alberta’s agricultural sector.
Askiy is a partnership between Frog Lake First Nations and Logistik Unicorp. As part of the agreement, industry experts and Indigenous communities will work collaboratively to build on Alberta’s existing agricultural strengths. Frog Lake First Nations will engage surrounding communities, organizations, and residents to build awareness of new business opportunities and share information that maximizes economic and community benefits for east-central Alberta.
The Askiy hemp processing plant is expected to be operational in summer of 2025 and is one component of a multi-million-dollar development that Askiy will lead in the Elk Point area. Once complete, this facility will directly employ more than 45 individuals, with at least one third of these jobs expected to be filled by Indigenous Peoples. Initially the hemp materials produced in this facility will primarily be used in textiles.
“Our government is taking action to advance reconciliation and to develop meaningful partnerships that contribute to an economy that works for everyone. By supporting the Askiy Hemp Limited Partnership hemp processing plant we are helping to strengthen the economy in the Elk Point area, creating quality jobs for Albertans, contributing to economic reconciliation, and adding value to Canada’s agriculture sector. This investment will help build a stronger and more sustainable economic future across the Prairies,” said Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan.
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When complete, the plant will process 40,000 tons of hemp stalk annually for use in a variety of products including textiles, building materials, fertilizer, and paper. Read More