WELLINGTON COUNTY – The federal government is investing $8 million to support local farmers and the agri-food industry in adopting sustainable technologies.
On Friday, funds through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario were announced in Guelph by Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, and Lloyd Longfield, MP for Guelph.
“Today’s investments will support the long-term prosperity and sustainability of our communities while strengthening our local agrifood sector right here in Guelph and across southern Ontario,” said Lloyd Longfield, MP for Guelph
The funding will be directed to Bioenterprise Canada Mapleview Agri Ltd. and Farm Health Guardian Ltd.
“Bioenterprise Canada, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to building and growing innovative companies focused on agricultural technology, is receiving a nearly $6-million investment. With this support, Bioenterprise will be delivering the Sustainable Growth and Adoption Program to which food and agritech businesses in southern Ontario can apply for funding. This funding will help businesses to accelerate their development, while also supporting businesses and organizations to adopt and integrate new clean technologies, practices, and process enhancements into their operations. With this investment, Bioenterprise Canada expects to support up to 45 businesses contributing to clean growth, and accelerate the commercialization of up to 40 new products, services or processes, resulting in up to $20 million in sales. Visit the Bioenterprise Canada website for details and to apply.”
“Located in Palmerston, Mapleview Agri Ltd. manufactures and distributes milk replacer products to feed calves, sheep and kid goats. To meet growing global demand, the company is expanding into a new energy-efficient facility that will house an integrated lab space and new, fully automated systems. With a FedDev Ontario investment of $1.5 million, the company will adopt specialized equipment to increase production capacity and enhance automation, quality control and efficiencies.”
Farm Health Guardian Ltd. is a digital biosecurity and animal disease prevention software provider. The company has developed a farm biosecurity software system that reduces the risk and spread of animal disease, protecting farmers and food companies. The software is expected to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring consumer access to a safe and secure food supply. Through an investment of $350,000, the company will be able to support the commercialization of its software system in Canada.”
“Cultivating a thriving, green agrifood sector in southern Ontario is nurturing innovation, supporting local economies and ensuring global competitiveness. These investments demonstrate the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting the success and sustainability of our agrifood businesses by supporting them with the resources they need to succeed,” said Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario