First Nations Agriculture & Finance Ontario and Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agri-business Launch “Introduction to Beef Cattle” Training Program for Indigenous Participants

First Nations Agriculture & Finance Ontario (FNAFO), in partnership with the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs and First Nation Economic Reconciliation, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agri-business and the Beef Farmers of Ontario, is pleased to announce the launch of the Introduction to Beef Cattle one-week training course designed specifically for Indigenous participants interested in learning the fundamentals of beef cattle management and production.

This hands-on educational program is intended for individuals who are considering raising beef cattle for personal homesteads, community food security initiatives, or as the foundation for a future agricultural business. Participants will gain practical knowledge and real-world experience through training sessions, guest speakers, and visits to active beef cattle farms and processing facilities.

The program aims to support the growth of Indigenous participation in agriculture while strengthening local food systems and creating pathways toward entrepreneurship and economic development.

The course curriculum will include:

  • Beef Cattle Farm Basics
  • Bovine Nutrition and Feed Supplements
  • Breeding and Reproduction
  • Calving
  • Herd Tracking and Animal Health

Two sessions will be offered across Ontario in 2026:

Southern Ontario Session Northern Ontario Session
September 28 – October 2, 2026
Tyendinaga, Ontario		 October 19 – 23, 2026
Bruce Mines, Ontario

 

 

Travel subsidies may be available for qualifying participants.

This program is designed to provide participants with practical skills and foundational knowledge while supporting greater Indigenous engagement in agriculture. Whether individuals are interested in food security, expanding agricultural knowledge, or exploring business opportunities, this course offers an accessible introduction to the beef cattle sector.

Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to register early as spaces may be limited.

Starting Your Business & Mastering Basic Bookkeeping with Marissa Dube – Virtual Workshop

Join us for an enlightening workshop led by Marissa Dube, a seasoned bookkeeping consultant and licensed financial advisor with a passion for empowering Indigenous and women entrepreneurs. Marissa offers invaluable insights into the essentials of starting a business, managing financials, and mastering personal finance, all while providing practical tools tailored for Canadian entrepreneurs.

Her groundbreaking entrepreneurial journey offers a fresh and dynamic approach to the world of entrepreneurship, redefining the path to success! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this workshop is designed to equip you with the tools you need to thrive!

Key Learning Topics:

Understanding Business Taxes & Structure in Canada: Learn how business taxes work in Canada, the different tax structures (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.), and how to choose the right one for your business.

Paying Less in Taxes – Legally: Understand the difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion in a Canadian context, and discover strategies to minimize your tax burden through deductions, credits, and other legal means.

Business Fundamentals: Get an overview of the key business concepts you need to succeed, including planning, budgeting, and setting up processes to grow your business effectively.

Personal & Business Finance Correlation: Explore how your personal finances impact your business in Canada, and why it’s important to create solid financial habits that support both your personal and business goals.

What to Track in Your Business Finances: Learn what financial records to keep, from income and expenses to sales tax (GST/HST) collection, to ensure you stay organized and ready for tax time.

Basic Bookkeeping Concepts: Dive into the basics of bookkeeping, including how to manage financial transactions, track receipts, and use accounting software to stay on top of your business’s financial health.

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