In 2009, Farm Credit Canada is celebrating its 50th anniversary and will donate $1 million from the FCC AgriSpirit Fund to support local projects.

The FCC AgriSpirit Fund applications will be accepted online at www.AgriSpirit.cafrom May 1 until June 15, 2009. The FCC AgriSpirit Fund is about making life better for people in rural communities. This fund awards between $5,000 and $25,000 for community improvement projects such as emergency services equipment, playgrounds, recreation centres and care homes in communities with populations fewer than 100,000.

“We’re committed to enhancing rural communities across Canada,” Kellie Garrett, FCC senior vice-president strategy, knowledge and reputation says. “We’re proud that the FCC AgriSpirit Fund has supported over 256 capital projects, totalling $2.5 million, since 2004.”

Community and volunteer groups across the country are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and apply online for funding at www.AgriSpirit.ca.FCC will announce the selected projects in the fall of 2009.

As Canada’s largest provider of business and financial services to farms and agribusiness, FCC advances the business of agriculture. Operating out of 100 offices located primarily in rural Canada, FCC employees are passionate about the business of agriculture. A healthy portfolio of more than $15 billion and 15 consecutive years of portfolio growth are a reflection of our customers’ success.