Many farms, one equipment shed: a Cape Breton model for growth

Federal investment of $150,000 helps a long-running equipment program put more modern machinery within reach of Inverness and Victoria farmers

August 18, 2026 · Mabou, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) 

Farmers have been sharing machinery in Inverness and Victoria counties for more than 50 years. It is a simple idea that still makes good economic sense: farmers get the equipment they need, when they need it, without each having to buy it themselves.

Today, Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous

Relations and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso—Antigonish, highlighted federal support to the Inverness/Victoria Federation of Agriculture to enhance its equipment rental program ($150,000 non-repayable).

The investment is helping the Federation expand its shared equipment fleet with machinery for forage production, livestock management, soil preparation, manure handling and transportation. A new rental management system will also make it easier to book and manage equipment in locations across Inverness and Victoria counties.

By sharing costly equipment, local producers can spend less on machinery while improving productivity on their farms. The project supports stronger rural businesses and Canada's broader work to produce more food at home and build a more resilient food system.

The funding announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

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Quotes

“The strength of Cape Breton's agricultural sector lies in the dedication and innovation of the people and businesses driving it forward. By investing in projects that enhance productivity, strengthen local supply chains, and support sustainable growth, we are helping ensure the sector continues to thrive. These investments will create lasting benefits for rural communities, contribute to regional economic development, and help build a more resilient economy across Atlantic Canada.” 
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“Farmers in Inverness and Victoria have been sharing equipment for generations because it makes good business sense. It lowers costs, improves productivity and helps producers invest more money back into their businesses. Strong rural communities and productive farms are part of building a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy.”
- Jaime Battiste, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso—Antigonish

“The Inverness/Victoria Federation of Agriculture would like to acknowledge the significant financial contribution by ACOA to allow us to purchase many new pieces of rental equipment and modernize the rental process by setting up an electronic Rental App. It was exciting to see the support for agriculture in the region and collaboration between all levels of government. Thank you to all contributors.”
- Rodney Beaton, Board Member, Inverness Victoria Federation of Agriculture

Quick facts

• The Inverness/Victoria Federation of Agriculture is a volunteer-run organization that has served the local agricultural community for more than 80 years. Equipment is managed and maintained by volunteers and has become an integral part of many local farm operations.

• The Federation has 90 member farms spanning a broad mix of agriculture, including beef, dairy, sheep, blueberries, strawberries, vegetables, bees, organic production and agri-tourism.

• The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund.