The Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG) have partnered with renowned research firm AIRMConsulting Ltd. to release a “Growth and Sustainable Prosperity” study for the greenhouse vegetable sector in Ontario.

The study developed and employed an innovative "Enterprise Risk Management" framework to create an analytical tool that examines the complexities of business, environment and social factors that contribute to the sector's success as well as the broader well-being of the communities in which the sector operates.

The ground-breaking study creates a new framework for addressing business risks and opportunities in a global marketplace while also considering the legitimate public interests around sustainability and food security. The study
highlights key enablers and impediments. The study also demonstrates alignment with the growth agenda of both the provincial and federal governments outlining shared growth objectives and particularly significant export market
opportunities.

This study outlines significant economic statistics from Ontario’s greenhouse vegetable sector:

• Creates more than 32,000 jobs.

• $2.3 billion contribution to province’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

• $1.3 billion to Ontario’s farmgate value.

• More than 3,800 acres of production.

• More than 80% of produce is exported to international markets.

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs awarded OGVG funding to complete this studythrough the Grassroots Growth Initiative, a program designed to enhance agricultural operations in the province.
“Thank you to the Ontario government for the support they have provided. The funding assistance has allowed OGVG to continue with our leadership role in innovation and business competitiveness,” says Richard Lee, executive director.

“This report underscores the importance of greenhouse agriculture and our contributions from Ontario as well as Canada-wide to feed North America,” added George Gilvesy, chair of OGVG. “Our shared goals and values for sustainable prosperity and food security make the greenhouse sector and our growers’ ideal partners for governments and communities.”

Source:  Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers August 17, 2023 news release