RCMP alerts Alberta farmers of grant program fraud
Posted July 19, 2023 10:10 am.
The RCMP in Alberta is advising farmers of a new fraud that’s been reported online.
Mounties says they were alerted to the scheme after someone signed up for a farm grant on a website that came up during a Google search.
The website reportedly asked for a fee to be submitted with a business plan, and was allegedly going to provide funds and assistance.
No money or support were provided to the victim, so they asked for a refund, which also never came.
The report indicates the person then contacted 310-FARM, who advised them that this was likely a case of fraud and that loan programs never ask for any fees or referrals up front.
The RCMP is reminding farmers that grants are only provided through 310-FARM, which can be accessed online on the Government of Alberta website.
Mounties also note, it is illegal for any grant or loan program to ask for an upfront fee.
Lastly, if you find a grant program online that you are unsure about, you’re told to contact the Alberta Farmers’ Advocate Office at 403-742-7901 or 310-FARM.
