S-Cap invests $23.55 million into horticulture to boost competitiveness

Horticulture research and innovation is getting a $23.55 million boost from the federal and provincial governments.

The multi-year Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (S-CAP) investment will increase Vineland Research and Innovation Centre’s (VRIC) research and innovation capacity and advanced horticultural research infrastructure.

“The VRIC is a key part of Ontario’s wider agri-food research capabilities that drive innovation and commercialization for the industry,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, in a statement. “Our government is proud to support this facility as it works to determine market trends, identify best production practices and increase competitiveness across the sector, which all contribute to the success of Ontario’s agriculture and food businesses.”

Why it matters: VRIC’s research increases competitiveness and profitability within the provincial horticulture sector and nationwide.

The VRIC research aligns with the province’s Grow Ontario strategy goals, including automation, biological crop protection, plant variety development and consumer sensory and market insights.

“The government is prioritizing and focusing on made-in-Ontario research and innovation that boosts productivity, helps businesses grow, creates jobs and strengthens the economy for Ontario and Canada,” said Dr. Ian Potter, VRIC president and CEO, in a statement. “As well as globally positioning and protecting the province’s food security and supply system.”

The facility operates 90 hectares of experimental orchards, vineyards, rotational crops, and greenhouses, with approximately 30 onsite buildings owned by the Agricultural Research and Innovation Ontario (ARIO).  

VRIC’s collaboration with ARIO ensures access to up-to-date equipment and infrastructure for industry-focused research and innovation activities.

“ARIO is pleased to provide modern facilities and equipment so the VRIC can continue to develop high-impact horticultural research that the industry needs,” said Lorne Hepworth, ARIO chair. “(Allowing) the agri-food industry to stay on the cutting edge of best production practices and implement new technologies and techniques that will increase the competitiveness and sustainability of the agri-food sector.”

Investing in practical solutions for the horticulture sector ensures farmers have the tools and knowledge required to stay competitive, said Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

“The cutting-edge research that takes place at the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre is keeping us at the forefront of innovation here in Canada and around the world,” Bittle said.