Federal Government Launches PPE Hub & Calls for Food Infrastructure Proposals

Yesterday, the federal government announced the launch of Supply Hub, a portal for buying and selling personal protective equipment (PPE).

Supply Hub connects organizations with federal, provincial and territorial procurement portals and provides information for companies and organizations on how to buy PPE and use it properly.

Information for suppliers looking to sell PPE includes:

• Required product specifications
• Procurement and donation opportunities
• Business guidance, including: (1) Information for business and industry on taxes, permits and regulations, intellectual property, business support, and how to sell to government, and (2) information on waiving tariffs on certain medical goods

Information for organizations looking to buy PPE includes:

• Best practices for keeping people safe
• PPE supplier lists
  Where to find PPE for purchase
• Consumer advice, including: (1) Tip sheets on use of PPE and guidance on designing a PPE program, and (2) Additional health and safety resources

Local Food Infrastructure Fund‍

Also yesterday, Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister, Hon. Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced a call for proposals for the Local Food Infrastructure Fund that supports community-based projects that strengthen local food networks and local supply chains. This second call for proposals, valued at $43.4 million, is now accepting applications.

This program supports small and large community-led projects at facilities such as urban gardens, community kitchens, food banks, and greenhouses. Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until funding has been allocated. Projects valued at up to $250,000 will be accepted.
Eligible activities include the construction of greenhouses and garden boxes, the purchase of equipment for the preparation, refrigeration, distribution and storage of food, and vehicle and transport equipment.