The funding will be used for the development of new technologies and solutions as well as develop new practices for on-farm solutions
Image: Canada seeks to boost agriculture industry in Ontario. Photo: courtesy of Kai Pilger from Pixabay.
The governments of Canada and Ontario have approved up to C$1.85m ($1.39m) in funding to support the agri-food research initiative in Ontario to make the sector more competitive.
The funding will be used for the development of new technologies and solutions as well as develop new practices for on-farm solutions in a bid to address issues faced by the modern-day industry.
Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau said: “By investing in leading-edge agriculture and agri-food technologies, the Government is investing in one of the most innovative, dynamic and competitive sectors of the Canadian economy.
“Our producers need science and innovation to stand out and seize the exciting business opportunities that present themselves. This is essential to the growth of their businesses.”
Proposals invited for advancing research in food safety, bio-based production systems, among others
As part of the new Ontario Agri-Food Research Initiative, the federal and provincial governments are now accepting proposals for advancing research in food safety, trade, market and growth opportunities, automation, and bio-based production systems.
Each of the research projects will receive a maximum of $150,000 funding, subject to selection.
Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Ernie Hardeman said: “We want to provide the sector with the latest tools and techniques to position it for further growth and to continue being world leaders in agri-food innovation now and for years to come.”
The latest funding is expected to increase trade opportunities for Ontario grown and made food items as well as boost rural economic opportunity by making agri-food businesses more profitable and competitive.
Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario chair Dr Lorne Hepworth said: “The Agri-Food Research Initiative is critical to the success of Ontario’s agri-food sector and will support the competitiveness, prosperity and sustainability of the sector and rural communities.”
Earlier this year, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister Navdeep Bains responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) has announced more than C$1.9m (£1.2m) funding to support innovation in Alberta’s agriculture sector.