Light Reflecting Materials Program
Highlights
This program is designed specifically for apple growers and other tree fruit producers in BC. It offers 50% cost-sharing on light reflecting materials (LRMs), which can significantly improve the quality and color of your fruit. By using LRMs, you can ensure your apples are harvested at the right ripeness, enhancing their market value.
What You Get
- 50% reimbursement on eligible materials, from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $30,000.
- Funding covers not just the LRMs but also necessary hardware for installation.
Why Apply?
- Boost your crop quality: LRMs have been proven to increase the premium grades of apples.
- Financial support: This cost-sharing program reduces your out-of-pocket expenses.
- Easy qualification: If you meet the basic criteria, the application process is straightforward and support is available.
Applying for this program can help you enhance your product quality while reducing costs, making it a valuable opportunity for your business.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Cost-Shared Funding
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- This program does not involve loans or repayable sums. It offers cost-shared funding, meaning you will be reimbursed for 50% of eligible expenses.
Eligible Expenses:
- Purchase of new and approved light reflecting materials (LRMs) such as Extenday, ReflectaKnit, and Bright White Reflective Fabric.
- Hardware necessary for installation (e.g., rubber cords, wire claws, corner ties, tree ropes, PVC pipe for storage) and installation equipment, up to a maximum cost of $3,500.
Ineligible Expenses:
- Materials not listed as approved (e.g., mylar materials).
- GST is not eligible for reimbursement.
Fees:
- There are no fees associated with applying for or participating in this program.
Qualifications
- Must be a primarily apple grower or other tree fruit crop producer (includes grapes).
- Must be located in British Columbia (BC).
- Must be the operator of the farmed property where the material will be primarily used.
Must use best efforts and follow good horticultural practices to place the material on their crops.
Disqualifications:
- Businesses not involved in apple growing or other tree fruit crop production.
- Businesses located outside of British Columbia.
- Use of non-approved materials, specifically mylar materials.
- GST expenses are not eligible for reimbursement.
Description
This program offers cost-shared funding to help you buy light reflective materials (LRMs) for your crops. These materials can improve the color and quality of your apples, making them more appealing and valuable.
You can get 50% of your costs covered, with a minimum reimbursement of $500 and up to $30,000. This means if you spend $1,000 on eligible materials, you get $500 back. If you spend $60,000, you get $30,000 back.
The funding covers not just the LRMs but also necessary installation hardware like rubber cords and PVC pipes, up to $3,500. You’ll receive 75% of the funding upfront once your application is approved and the remaining 25% after an on-site inspection. This program helps you invest in better crop quality without bearing the full cost alone.
Program Steps
Create an Account on IAF’s Client Portal: Visit the IAF Client Portal and create an account. Register your organization (i.e., farm) on the portal. This process can take up to two business days for validation.
Complete the Application Form: Once your organization is validated, fill out the Light Reflecting Material Program application form on the portal. Provide detailed information about your operation and material expenses.
Prepare Required Documentation: Gather and prepare the following documents to support your application:
- A detailed plot plan showing the variety planted by block and the approximate date of deployment of materials.
- Paid receipts or invoices for each expense to be cost-shared under the program.
- If paid receipts or invoices are not available, provide a copy of the order confirmation, including the order number.
Submit the Application: Submit the completed application form along with the required documentation through the IAF Client Portal.
Await Application Review: The IAF Team will review your application. They may contact you for additional information or to adjust your application as required.
Receive Funding Notification: If your application is approved, you will receive an approval letter via email outlining the terms and conditions. If not approved, you will be informed via email.
Prepare for On-site Material Inspections: Approved applicants must complete an on-site material inspection between July and September 2023. Ensure materials are installed and ready for inspection. If materials are in storage post-harvest, take photos to prove usage.
Submit Proof of Payment: Provide proof of payment (cheque number, EFT reference number, etc.) for all purchased materials to receive funds from the program.
Receive Initial Funding: Upon approval and receipt of the approval letter, you will receive 75% of the funding. The remaining 25% will be paid following the physical inspection of the installed materials.
Comply with Funding Acknowledgements: If you wish to make any public announcements or share news on social media about the funding, contact the IAF Communications Team for pre-approval.