Farm Inputs Directory FAQs
How does a business get listed in the Directory?
Stream 1
- An OFA member (FBR or IFM) refers a business by submitting a Member Referral Form
- The Form is reviewed by OFA staff
- If approved, the business is contacted for an opportunity to submit a listing
- The business fills out the Business Consent Form to submit a listing
- The Form is reviewed to ensure it fits the Listing Approval Guidelines
- If approved, the business is included in the Directory
Stream 2
- An OFA member (FBR or IFM) contacts a business they wish to refer and provides the business with their contact information (including their Member Number)
- The business fills out the Referral and Consent Form
- The Form is reviewed to ensure it fits the Listing Approval Guidelines
- If approved, the business is included in the Directory.
Note: OFA Benefit Program Partners do not require a Member Referral Form for inclusion in the Directory.
Who can refer a business?
Only Farm Business Registration (FBR) and Individual Farm (IFM) members can refer a business to the Directory. Associates (ASC) cannot refer a business, but if they have a member refer their business, and fit the Listing Approval Guidelines, they can submit an application to be included in the Directory. OFA members must be active and in good standing to submit a referral. OFA staff cannot refer a farm inputs business.
What if I am an OFA member and have a farm inputs business, can I refer myself?
No. However, if your business fits the Listing Approval Guidelines, another OFA member can refer you by submitting a Member Referral Form.
Are there criteria for a business to be approved in the Directory?
Yes. Please see the Listing Approval Guidelines for the criteria.
I am an Associate, can I be listed in the Directory?
Yes, if an OFA member refers your business and it fits the Listing Approval Guidelines.
Refer a Business
Can I refer any type of business?
No, it must be considered a farm inputs business. See the Directory homepage for a list.
Is there a limit to the number of businesses I can refer?
No. On the Member Referral Form, you can continue to click "Add Another Referral" to submit multiple referrals. You may also submit multiple referral forms.
Can I refer a business from outside of Ontario?
No. At this time, only businesses with an address in Ontario are able to be included in the Directory.
Will I receive anything for referring a business?
No, however, this Directory will only be useful to OFA members if there are member referrals. By referring a business, you support your local businesses, as well as contribute to a useful resource for your fellow OFA members.
Business Listings
Is there a fee for businesses to be listed in the Directory?
No, the Directory is a free service.
How long will the listing remain in the Directory?
The listing will remain in the Directory until, with a valid reason:
- The business requests to have their business removed;
- The OFA member who referred the business requests it be removed, with a valid reason;
- Three OFA members, within a three-month period, request for it to be removed, with valid reasons;
- Other, as determined by OFA staff.
To request a business listing be removed, you must fill out the Request for Removal Form.
Businesses will be emailed annually with a chance to revise or remove their current listing.
What are valid reasons to remove a listing from the Directory?
- Consistent dissatisfaction with the products or services;
- Business does not supply farm inputs (products or services);
- Business no longer exists;
- Other, as determined by OFA staff.
I have a business listing, can I revise my information?
You can email any changes to farminputs@ofa.on.ca.
You will be contacted annually with an opportunity to update your contact information.
If the business no longer exists, please fill out the Request for Removal Form.
You will be permitted to apply minor errors and changes (e.g. phone, email) only. Fundamental business information, such as business name, will be reviewed by OFA staff. Significant changes to a business listing may require a new Member Referral Form.