Canada invests millions in agri-food automation and AI technology

The Canadian government has announced a $50 million investment in the Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network (CAAIN) through the Strategic Response Fund. This initiative aims to strengthen domestic food security and supply chain resilience by accelerating the development and commercialization of agricultural technologies. The investment is expected to fund at least 40 new technology projects, mobilize $80 million in private sector co-investment, and create or maintain approximately 800 jobs.

In a separate move to support domestic innovation, Protein Industries Canada (PIC) is investing over $2 million into two AgTech projects utilizing artificial intelligence. One project, a partnership involving TerraVision360, Metos Canada, and Rocky Mountain Equipment, focuses on an AI-powered tool to predict and manage Ascochyta blight risks. The second project, involving SuperGeoAi Technology and Southview Farms, aims to develop an AI-enabled drone equipped with LiDAR to measure grain volumes in silos and farm stores.