$5 million contribution through PrairiesCan to support the construction of an Indigenous owned industrial hemp processing plant in Elk Point, Alberta

May 3, 2024 – Elk Point, Alberta – Prairies Economic Development Canada

A competitive and sustainable agriculture sector is a vital contributor to the Canadian economy. Crop and animal production, processing of food and food ingredients, and manufacturing of products like biofuels and hemp fibre are key economic drivers that support quality jobs. The Government of Canada is investing in initiatives that increase the value of agriculture, advance reconciliation, create jobs, and establish new opportunities for businesses.

Today, the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced $5 million in federal funding through the Community Economic Development and Diversification fund for the Askiy Hemp Limited Partnership (Askiy) to construct a state-of-the-art industrial hemp processing plant in Elk Point, Alberta. When complete, the plant will process 40,000 tons of hemp stalk annually for use in a variety of products including textiles, building materials, fertilizer, and paper. Increasing demand for hemp will provide a new revenue stream for farmers and diversify Alberta’s agricultural sector.

Askiy is a partnership between Frog Lake First Nations and Logistik Unicorp. As part of the agreement, industry experts and Indigenous communities will work collaboratively to build on Alberta’s existing agricultural strengths. Frog Lake First Nations will engage surrounding communities, organizations, and residents to build awareness of new business opportunities and share information that maximizes economic and community benefits for east-central Alberta.

The Askiy hemp processing plant is expected to be operational in summer of 2025 and is one component of a multi-million-dollar development that Askiy will lead in the Elk Point area. Once complete, this facility will directly employ more than 45 individuals, with at least one third of these jobs expected to be filled by Indigenous Peoples. Initially the hemp materials produced in this facility will primarily be used in textiles.