Agtech Growth Fund Opens Doors to Agricultural Transformation 

Innovation is reshaping the agricultural landscape, and the Agtech Growth Fund (AGF) stands as a cornerstone in advancing technology within the sector. Designed to accelerate the commercialization of groundbreaking innovations, this fund empowers Saskatchewan-based organizations to lead transformative projects that address industry-wide challenges and enhance the agriculture industry. 

Funding Snapshot: Agtech Growth Fund (AGF) 

Funding Amount 

The Agtech Growth Fund (AGF) offers substantial financial support to eligible applicants aiming to revolutionize agriculture through technological innovation. Successful applicants can receive up to $450,000 in non-repayable grants per project, with a lifetime maximum of $900,000. 

Program Eligibility 

To qualify for funding under the AGF program, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

• Lead Applicant: Saskatchewan-based organizations must lead the project consortium. 
• Industry Collaboration: Projects must involve active private sector partners representing the value chain. These partners must contribute cash, in-kind services, equity investment, or provide a letter of intent to purchase. 
• Technological Innovation: Proposals must introduce innovative and novel technological solutions to solve specific industry-wide challenges in agriculture. 
• Commercialization Plan: Applicants must outline a clear strategy for how the project will be commercialized and sustained in the long term. 
• Funding Structure: Industry partners must collectively provide 50% or more of the project’s budget, with the funding requested from the AGF program not exceeding 30% of the total project budget. 

Project Eligibility 

Projects eligible for funding under the AGF program include, but are not limited to, the following themes: 

• Software and hardware for digital agriculture (e.g., sensors, imagery, precision agriculture);
• Robotics, automation, and machinery for smart farms;
• Animal health technologies;
• Traceability solutions for the Agrifood Supply Chain; and
• Agricultural markets and financial technologies (Fintech) 

Deadlines 

The AGF program operates on specific deadlines to facilitate the application and review process: 

• July 31: Deadline for submission of full proposals. 
• September 30: Funding decisions are made, with successful applicants notified thereafter. 

Access More Agricultural Funding Today 

The Agtech Growth Fund (AGF) represents a pivotal opportunity for Saskatchewan-based organizations to lead the charge in agricultural innovation. By harnessing the power of technology, these projects not only aim to solve pressing industry challenges but also contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of Canada’s agriculture sector. For businesses and research institutions dedicated to advancing agricultural technologies, exploring funding opportunities through the AGF could mark the beginning of transformative advancements that benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment alike. 

If your agribusiness is currently looking for more funding options, we are writing applications for the following programs as well:  
 

• Grow Ontario Market: A government initiative aimed at supporting Ontario’s agricultural sector through funding programs that enhance market access, product development, and competitiveness. Eligible applicants can receive up to $125K in funding.  
• Dairy Processing Modernization Initiative: Government funding program designed to assist Canadian dairy processors in adopting new technologies and processes to modernize their operations and improve efficiency. Eligible applicants can receive up to $200K in funding. 
• Saskatchewan Lean Improvements in Manufacturing (SLIM): Funding program in Saskatchewan focused on supporting manufacturing companies in implementing lean manufacturing principles to enhance productivity and reduce waste. Eligible applicants can receive up to a max of $750K in funding.