Federal Government And Ont. Investing $4.77M In Agri-food Research

TORONTO – The governments of Canada and Ontario announce that they are investing up to $4.77 million in 48 research and innovation projects and supporting 20 companies through the Ontario Agri-Food Research Initiative (OAFRI). This funding through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) will try to protect Ontario by helping farmers and agribusinesses grow their businesses by adopting new technologies and advancing commercialization to remain competitive in the face of economic uncertainty from U.S. tariffs.

“It takes innovation to build a successful agri-food sector in Ontario and across the country,” said Heath MacDonald, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “By investing in companies that bring forward bold ideas and practical solutions, we’re helping the sector seize new opportunities and stay competitive and resilient.”

“We want to ensure Ontario’s farmers and agribusinesses have access to the latest technology and innovative solutions to grow and strengthen their businesses,” said Trevor Jones, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Through OAFRI, we are helping them prepare for the future, take advantage of new opportunities and stay competitive and resilient in the face of economic uncertainty.”

OAFRI reportedly provides funding for five research, innovation and commercialization streams.

“It is exciting to see such compelling and impactful innovations being developed right here in Ontario. The size of our agri-food production in Ontario is second only to California in North America,” said Dave Smardon, President & CEO, Bioenterprise Canada Corporation. “Maintaining a leading position in agri-food innovation is critical to the health and growth of our industry. The support that the Ontario government has provided is helping to ensure that we do so and paves the way for even more innovation as the program continues.”

These investments build on the Grow Ontario Strategy which is trying to strengthen the agri-food sector by increasing agri-food innovation and adoption through close collaboration with agri-businesses, research organizations, and industry partners.