Call for Applications

African-Canadian Farmers Society Agricultural Training and Incubation Program

Cohort 1 – Pilot Program (April 2026 – April 2027)

The African-Canadian Farmers Society (ACFS) is now accepting applications for our Agricultural Training and Incubation Program, a land-based training and business incubation initiative designed to support the next generation of Black farmers in British Columbia.

This program creates a culturally safe space for Black youth, newcomers, urban Black community members, and intergenerational farmers who are passionate about growing food, especially culturally appropriate African diaspora crops that are not widely available in BC (such as spider plant, African nightshade, pumpkin greens, African spinach, amaranth, and others).

We will train, mentor, and incubate 8 participants over an intensive 8-month program (April 2026 – April 2027) on our working farm in Surrey, BC, with classroom sessions held at Solid State Community Industries in Surrey.

What the Program Offers

Vocational Training

Hands-on vocational training across two growing seasons on a dedicated training plot plus an individual experimental patch (approximately 1 acre total).

Practical Learning

Classroom and practical learning covering farming techniques, BC agricultural ecosystem, business development, marketing, financial literacy, and crop adaptation.

Stipend Support

Monthly stipend to support full participation (equivalent to $20/hour for 20 hours/week, adjusted from BC living wage to reflect the training nature of the program).

Community Building

Community-building and cultural safety: social food events, cultural feasts, holiday celebrations, children’s events, and connection with local Indigenous nations to honour the history of the lands and waters.

Post-Graduation Support

Seed Funding

$5,000 seed funding per participant for your agricultural business (invoiced and tied to your approved business plan).

Stepping Up

Opportunity to join our sister organization, the African-Canadian Agricultural Producers Cooperative (ACAPC).

Matching Program

Support to enter the BC Land Matching Program.

Mentorship Access

Access to tools, equipment, mentorship, industry contacts, and peer learning in a supportive, Black-led environment.

What We Expect from Participants

We are looking for committed individuals who are ready to invest in their growth as farmers and food entrepreneurs. During the 8-month program, participants are expected to:

Commit to 20 hours per week (approximately 2–3 days on the farm + 1–2 days of classroom/training sessions). Hours will be divided between land-based work, classroom learning, business development, and community/networking activities. The exact schedule will flex with seasons, weather, and farm needs.

Actively participate in classroom sessions (curriculum co-designed with you and based on best practices from similar, Black-led programs across North America and Australia).

Work collectively and individually on the land: planting, tending, experimenting with crops, harvesting, saving seeds, and adapting African diaspora crops to BC climate and soil conditions.

Contribute to market and community activities: selling produce at farmers’ markets, offering CSA subscriptions, participating in community distribution, and participating in food festivals and cultural events.

Engage fully in community-building and knowledge-sharing: attend and help facilitate social food events, feasts, and gatherings; collaborate with peers and mentors; document and share learnings (including contributions to the “African Farmers of British Columbia Toolkit”).

Complete program assignments, business planning, and reflections.

Maintain at least 90% attendance and participation to graduate and qualify for the $5,000 seed grant and Land Matching support.

This is a hands-on, intensive program. Participants must be prepared to be outdoors in all seasons, work physically on the farm, and commit to building both practical farming skills and viable small-scale agricultural enterprises.

Who Should Apply

Black individuals (African diaspora, including Black newcomers, refugees, youth, urban residents, and intergenerational family farmers) living in the Lower Mainland / Metro Vancouver (priority to those in the Lower Mainland/Metro Vancouver).

Individuals passionate about food production, cultural food sovereignty, and community wellness are encouraged to apply.

No previous farming experience in Canada is necessary; lived experience, traditional knowledge, or enthusiasm are valued.

Especially welcoming newcomers with farming backgrounds from their home countries.

Your Application Should Include

A short statement (300–500 words) telling us why you want to participate and what you hope to grow (literally and figuratively).
Your resume or bio should highlight any relevant experience, such as farming, community work, or entrepreneurship, along with contact information and a confirmation that you can commit to 20 hours per week in Surrey for the full 8 months.
We will review applications and conduct interviews in mid- to late April 2026. Selected participants will be notified by late April.
This program focuses on healing, ownership, food security, and sovereignty. It provides a pathway to financial independence, cultural reconnection, mental and spiritual wellness, and stronger local food systems for Black communities in BC.
If you are ready to get your hands in the soil, build community, and grow something meaningful, we want to hear from you.

How to Apply

Fill the form and submit your application by April 15, 2026

Sorry! Application to this Program has closed.