Federal funding supports agtech innovation and climate friendly farming
Canadian agri-businesses are playing an important role in developing new solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the long-term strength of agriculture. To support this work, the Government of Canada is partnering with non-profit agtech organizations to help small and medium-sized businesses turn science-based ideas into practical clean technologies.
The federal government has announced up to 30 million dollars in funding over the next two years through the Agricultural Clean Technology Program Research and Innovation Stream Accelerator, also known as the ACT Accelerator.
The announcement was made by Danielle Martin, Member of Parliament for University–Rosedale, on behalf of Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
The funding will help Canadian start-ups and agri-food organizations develop and test advanced clean technologies that support sustainable farming and environmental protection. The goal is to strengthen the agricultural economy while lowering emissions.
“By forging meaningful partnerships and investing in these six ACT Accelerator projects, we continue to empower innovators across the country to develop and scale the clean technologies that will keep our farms competitive and our environment healthy for generations to come,” said Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
Six non-profit organizations will each manage their own application process and distribute funds to eligible projects across Canada. These organizations are Bioenterprise Canada Corporation, Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network, Canadian Food Innovation Network, MaRS Discovery District, Ontario Genomics, and Zone Agtech. Each organization supports innovation by connecting researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners.
“We are proud to support MaRS Discovery District as they help bring clean technology solutions to farmers, food producers, and agtech innovators across the country. By encouraging collaboration between technology creators and businesses that use these technologies, our plan through this project is to show how working together can lead to positive change and growth in the agtech industry,” said Danielle Martin, Member of Parliament for University–Rosedale.
Through these investments, farmers and agri-food businesses will gain better access to advanced technologies that improve efficiency and lower environmental impact. The ACT Program also supports Canada’s national goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45 to 50 percent below 2005 levels by 2035.
This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to clean growth, innovation, and a competitive future for Canadian agriculture.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr 2