NEWS RELEASE
SIMCOE-GREY MPP BRIAN SAUNDERSON
*************************
Ontario is partnering with the federal government to support local agri-food businesses through the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative, which aims to enhance operational efficiencies and productivity.
Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey, is pleased to announce that over $627,000.00 in funding has been earmarked for the riding. Some of the local recipients include:
- Patton Poultry Breeders from Everett
- Glenn Whiteside Farms from Alliston
- Ardiel Acres Ltd. from Clarksburg
- Double J Poultry from Everett
- Somerville Nurseries from Everett
“By funding and supporting innovation in the important agriculture sector in our riding, we are driving economic growth in the region,” said MPP Saunderson. “I look forward to the positive ripple effects this will have throughout our local communities.”
The Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative will support 319 farming and agribusinesses across the province through an investment of up to $22.6 million. Funding will be used to help them invest in innovative technology, equipment or processes that will increase their resiliency, productivity and efficiency.
“Our government knows that supporting innovation in Ontario’s agriculture and food sector is key to it reaching its potential, while securing our collective ability to achieve the ambitious goals in our Grow Ontario Strategy,” said Rob Flack, Ontario minister of agriculture, food and agribusiness. “These investments will allow established and emerging businesses to speed up efforts to optimize their operations and support growth for our agriculture and food sector.”
The Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative was developed following discussions with Ontario’s farming and agribusiness industry. It is part of a series of initiatives the government has implemented to support these businesses and is funded through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).
Under the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative, applicants could receive up to 50 per cent of their eligible project costs, for investments of up to $100,000. For projects requiring a larger investment, applicants could receive up to 35 per cent of their eligible project costs, for up to $100,000 in funding.
For projects that improve energy efficiency at eligible businesses, cost share per centage and maximum funding available per business was up to 35 per cent cost-share up to $100,000. Approved projects are to be completed by the end of 2027.
“Somerville Nurseries is grateful to OMAFA, the Agricultural Adaptation Council and the Government of Ontario for the Agri-Tech Innovation grant, which has enabled us to implement a customized irrigation boom for Christmas tree production. This technology is essential for helping our trees thrive amidst the challenges of a changing climate, including unpredictable weather, increased drought stress, and frequent heat events. With this support, we are better equipped to sustain and grow our business for a warmer future, while contributing to a more resilient agricultural sector.” — James Somerville, production manager
“The H.S.S. Intelligent Spray Application (ISA Sprayer) is a pioneer in the fruit industry and will greatly reduce chemical usage and drift, through its ability to scan chlorophyll in trees and deliver the spray exactly where it is needed, both helping our bottom line and the environment in one ste.” — Greg Ardiel, Adriel Acres Ltd.
*************************
