The B.C. government announced funding for four food and beverage manufacturers on Dec. 13. The funding comes from the the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, and will support four projects to increase production capacity and create jobs.
“Helping homegrown manufacturing companies expand helps us grow a strong, sustainable economy in B.C. that everyone can benefit from,” said Brenda Bailey, B.C. Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “Through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, we’re investing in innovative projects around the province that create stable jobs and stronger communities.”
Dr. Ma’s Laboratories will receive up to $1.25 million for a second processing facility and existing facility upgrades.
“The program’s support allows our company to open a second manufacturing facility and add new in-house production capabilities,” said Jie Ma, president at Dr. Ma’s Laboratories. “The funding helps us create sustainable and quality jobs, right here in Surrey.”
When We Eat Manufacturing Ltd., a frozen-snack company based in Pitt Meadows will receive up to $623,000 to expand production, build and install new equipment.
“With deep gratitude to the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, our project modernizes production in the food industry with in-house, state-of-the-art equipment and facility expansion,” said Jae Park, owner at When We Eat Manufacturing Ltd. “This strategic investment enhances efficiency, generates jobs, ensures food safety and drives our commitment to global innovation, contributing significantly to food-industry competitiveness and growth.”
As well, Pippin Point – a juice, cider and box manufacturer at Wynndel, B.C. – and Coquitlam vegan food company Soul Bite Food Inc. will also receive funding for a new production plant and machinery and capital planning costs for production automation, respectively.
“The stronger the B.C. manufacturing system is, the more secure our food and beverage supply will be for the people who rely on local products in our communities,” said Pam Alexis, Minister of Agriculture and Food with the announcement. “With this program, we’re helping B.C.’s agriculture and agritech manufacturing sectors be more competitive, while boosting economic growth. We will continue to work closely with them to ensure their success.”
Hon. Brenda Bailey at Punjab Milk Foods. Photo provided by the B.C. Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation.
In November, the B.C. provincial government also announced funding for up to $7.5 million for Punjab Milk Foods. The BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund will help Punjab Milk Foods establish a new 293,000 square foot South Asian dairy product processing plant in Surrey. The new plant is expected to be completed by early 2025, creating up to 50 new full-time jobs. The company manufactures made-in-B.C. brand Nanak Foods.
“The BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund is more than just financial support, it’s crucial to helping us reach our vision, a recognition of the significance of what we do, and an investment in our community,” said Gurpreet Arneja, president and co-founder, Punjab Milk Foods on Nov. 10. “Our expansion project allows us to modernize our operations and produce more food locally, while creating jobs and opportunities for our dedicated team to grow with us.”
