Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Who is eligible for funding?

   Alberta residents with a minimum of 10 years experience in the agriculture and food industry and who are actively involved in an agribusiness at present. This criteria includes producers, farm managers, and managers in agribusiness such as processors, association staff, and others involved in Alberta’s agribusiness community.

2. How do you access funding?

   Contact the IAMF Manager by phone or email to discuss eligibility and program choices. 

3. When do I need to submit the application into the Agriculture and Food Council?
   
   Applications must be received prior to the start of the program and within the September to March timeline. Applications for ALMDP support will not be accepted after the chosen program has begun.
   
   
4. Do I need to pay the cost of the course and expenses upfront?
   
   Yes, this is a reimbursement program. Clients must save receipts to provide proof of completion. Also, clients must comment on the success of their course in order to access the funding.
   
   
5. Can I take University or Post-secondary degrees with this program?
   
   University or other post-secondary or diploma programs are not eligible courses supported under the ALMDP.
   
   
6. Can I access ALMDP support for more than one course?
   
   ALMDP support can be accessed once during each offering year per person (September 1-March 31).
   
   
7. Can my family members obtain funding from ALMDP if I also have it?
   
   Yes. Each family member must complete separate application forms for support.
   
   
8. How long is ALMDP available?
   
   All funding for the program must be completed by March 31, 2008.
   
   
9. What expenses are covered?
   
   Meals and mileage expenses are covered as per Government of Alberta guidelines. Other expenses such as hotel and transportation costs are covered with proof of receipts. In addition, books specific to the course may be covered if receipts are provided.
   
   
10. Which courses are eligible?
    
    Courses that have been previously taken by ALMDP clients are eligible. New courses suggested to IAMF staff will be reviewed for eligibility, and a decision will be made in regard to whether funding for those programs will be provided.
    
    
11. What are some of the previous courses that have been supported?
    
    The Executive Development Program for Agri-Food Professionals, Competitive Advantage Program for Agriculture, Canadian Total Excellence in Agricultural Management Program, Finance for Non-Financial Managers (Queen’s School of Business) and Ranching for Profit School*.
    *Ranching for Profit is supported to a maximum of $3,750.00
    
    
12. If I have Canadian Agricultural Skills Service funding (CASS) or funding from the Canadian Farm Families Options Program can I still access ALMDP support?
    
    No, CASS funding and funding from the Canadian Farm Families Options Program comes from the same funding program as ALMDP. Duplication is not permitted. If you receive funding from the first two programs you will not be eligible for funding from ALMDP.