The Province of British Columbia has launched the next intake for the Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program (AWP) – Stream 1, supporting producers in developing or upgrading the critical water storage systems needed to meet growing agricultural water demands. Applications open November 18, 2025, and must be submitted by December 18, 2025 at 4 PM PST.
This funding stream focuses on long-term water resilience by enabling producers to construct or enhance infrastructure that captures spring flows for use during peak summer demand. Stream 1 specifically targets storage capacity, regulatory compliance, and system upgrades that support both agricultural production and broader watershed health.
Stream 1 funds five major categories of water storage and supply infrastructure:
Including regulated and unregulated structures, with an emphasis on meeting current regulatory standards.
Eligible for irrigation water and livestock watering systems, including rangeland applications.
Designed to capture and store peak seasonal flows where current supply is insufficient or at risk under projected climate scenarios.
Eligible where projects can demonstrate 30–50% water savings through improved conveyance efficiency.
Including infrastructure upgrades from off-farm storage or licensed stream intakes.
All projects must meet applicable technical, environmental, and regulatory requirements before construction can begin.
Cost-share ratio: 50%
Minimum funding: $200,000
Maximum funding: $1,000,000
Minimum total project cost: $400,000 (excluding GST and ineligible expenses)
Stacking: Allowed up to 100% with other government programs not delivered by IAF.
To qualify for Stream 1, applicants must be BC-based individual producers, including:
Sole proprietors
Partnerships
Corporations and LLCs
Cooperatives
Indigenous producers (all structures listed above)
Producers using water for both agricultural and non-agricultural purposes may apply.
Entities such as government bodies, non-profit organizations, water user communities, and irrigation/diking districts are not eligible for this stream.
November 18, 2025 – Applications Open (9 AM PST)
December 18, 2025 – Applications Close (4 PM PST)
Project Start: Upon approval
Project Completion Window: Up to 3 years
Final Completion Deadline: January 15, 2032
All applications must be submitted through the IAF Client Portal, along with supporting documentation such as quotes, engineering plans, permits, maps, assessments, and cost breakdowns.
GrantMatch streamlines the complex requirements of the Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program – Stream 1. We help confirm project eligibility, ensure all necessary permits and studies are in place, prepare compliant budgets, and assemble the supporting documents required for a strong application. Our team manages the full submission process and provides guidance throughout the project lifecycle, helping you secure funding with confidence.
Connect with GrantMatch today to strengthen your application and maximize your funding potential.