Canada’s agri-food network is getting a big boost from the federal government aimed at improving its capacity and the development of more home-grown technologies. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly announced $50 million in federal money will be going to support the Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network (CAAIN). The money is critical given the current global chain supply disruptions and rising food costs, officials said Wednesday. “Canadians deserve a food system that is strong, resilient and ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow,” Joly said. “Through our investment in CAAIN, we are accelerating the commercialization and adoption of innovative agricultural technologies that improve productivity and strengthen food supply chains. Our government is taking decisive actions to enhance Canada’s food security and support long-term affordability for Canadians.” The investment will also help CAAIN expand its network of smart farms and commercial farm demonstration sites while also providing cost-shared support for Canadian businesses involved in the development and adoption of agri-food technologies. “In our six years of operation, CAAIN has invested over $42 million in 56 exciting agri-food innovation projects on behalf of the Government of Canada,” said CAAIN’s CEO Darrell Petras. “We look forward to continuing to support agricultural innovation and the producers who benefit from the new technologies.” The federal investment will allow CAAIN to fund at least 40 new projects, pursue $80 million in private investment and create and maintain 800 jobs.
