New national network validates agtech to help farmers adopt proven tools
The Agriculture Innovation, Validation and Adoption Network, known as AIVA, has officially launched to help Canadian farmers adopt new agricultural technologies with greater confidence. The network focuses on testing and validating agtech in real farm environments, so producers can see clear proof of value before making investments.
AIVA brings farmers and technology developers together using standardized testing methods that can be applied across Canada. Technologies are evaluated under real field conditions to confirm they deliver measurable results, such as lowering input costs and improving farm productivity. This approach helps farmers make informed decisions based on reliable, third-party data.
“Canadian farmers deserve access to the best technology available, and that’s why farmers are at the heart of AIVA’s testing and validation processes. Our work brings stakeholders together to advance technology that solves real challenges for Canadian farmers, and provides them with real-world, third-party validated data to make their purchasing decisions,” said Rebecca Franklin, AIVA Network Lead.
Farm Credit Canada reported in 2025 that increasing productivity through innovation could raise farmer incomes by 30 billion dollars over the next decade. However, many agtech companies lack access to farms where they can test tools and gather farmer feedback. AIVA addresses this gap by offering a farmer-focused model that supports both innovators and producers.
“AIVA’s trials will provide results from across multiple farms and fields in different geographies across Canada. It’s unprecedented how valuable that information is going to be for innovators,” said Greg Stewart, CEO and Founder of Geco Weed Management.
The network carefully reviews early stage and market ready technologies to ensure they solve real on farm challenges. Technologies that show strong performance may earn recognition as AIVA Technology Partners, helping farmers identify trusted solutions.
During the 2026 growing season, AIVA Validation Hubs will run nine national, multi-site projects with agtech companies including Geco Weed Management, Corteva, Picketa, Miraterra, and FarmerTitan. These projects will test tools such as spray drones, remote sensors, and farm management software.
AIVA has already selected 25 Farmer Alliance Members managing more than 297,000 acres across Saskatchewan and Manitoba. These farms will pilot market ready technologies, with plans to expand participation across more regions in the future.
“AIVA makes sure the right technologies reach producers through rigorous vetting, trusted farmer networks, and hands-on adoption support. When the right technologies take root, adoption accelerates and that’s how the whole industry moves forward,” said Johnny Park, CEO, WHIN.
The network has also created a national industry coalition to strengthen collaboration and speed up technology adoption. Founded by Farm Credit Canada, EMILI, and WHIN, AIVA aims to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and increase profitability for Canadian farmers through proven innovation.
Photo Credit: AVIA-logo