New Pilot Project Aims To Improve Agri-Food Sector In Ontario.

Sunday, 12 January 2020 08:05

Ontario Agri-Food Technologies will receive up to $100,000 in cost-share funding to design and launch the pilot project.

ONTARIO - Both the Canadian and Ontario government are investing in a new project to improve the agri-food sector in the province.

Up to $100,000 in cost share funding will be given to Ontario Agri-Food Technologies to design and launch a pilot project called the Commercial Deal Accelerator.

This project will connect agribusinesses that are in the early stages that have innovative ideas, with corporate investors to create commercialization activity. The project will further support innovation, commercialization and growth in the province's agri-food sector.

It is funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership and is expected to and create sustainable, private revenue streams for agri-food and agri-tech entrepreneurs in the province.

Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Ernie Hardeman says they're in support of the new project.

"Ontario's agri-food and agri-tech entrepreneurs have always been leaders who find success through innovation and collaboration. Our government is pleased to help them continue to be successful by supporting this exciting new project through the Partnership."

Both the federal and provincial governments have committed cost-share support close to 2,500 projects through the Partnership, in order to help eligible Ontario farmers, processors, businesses and sector organizations innovate and grow.

Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau says it only make the sector stronger and create jobs.

"This initiative will strengthen the sector's ability to quickly bring innovation to market. Our Government is pleased to help ensure that Ontario's high quality agri-food products continue to drive our economy and create good middle class jobs.

The project's funding was approved through a merit-based application intake that took place through
March and April of last year. Through this intake, both governments have committed over $2 million in cost-share funding to 28 projects.

President, Ontario Agri-Food Technologies, Tyler Whale says being innovative is important to agriculture.

"Innovation is key to all aspects of agriculture, including how we commercialize new technologies. Importantly, the governments' support will help Ontario maintain its leadership role in the ag-tech ecosystem, thus supporting a primary economic driver of this province and country."