In a significant stride towards enhancing the Canadian hemp industry, Cannabis Orchards Inc., based in Kemptville, Ontario, announced it has received over half a million dollars in funding from two key government initiatives: the AgriScience Program and the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). This funding will support innovative research into the genetic improvement of industrial hemp and the advancement of minor cannabinoids, positioning the company as a leader in the rapidly evolving hemp sector.
AgriScience Program Grant
The first major funding award, amounting to $404,305 from the AgriScience Program, will facilitate Cannabis Orchards’ project aimed at developing seedless triploid hemp lines. These new varieties are designed to enhance the production of cannabidiol (CBD) and minor cannabinoids such as cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabichromene (CBC). By creating novel triploid hemp lines, Cannabis Orchards seeks to unlock new markets and maximize yields for hemp farmers, providing them with varieties that deliver a diverse range of cannabinoid profiles.
“The potential of minor cannabinoids in therapeutic applications is vast, yet they remain underutilized due to their scarcity. Our research and development efforts are dedicated to unlocking this potential…”
Dr. Jamie Ghossein, CEO of Cannabis Orchards
NRC IRAP Grant
The second grant, worth $196,000 from the NRC IRAP, supports the development of triploid hemp varieties through a process known as polyploidization. This research will not only increase biomass yield and cannabinoid content but also significantly reduce the risk of unwanted cross-pollination, as the plants will be rendered infertile. Dr. Ghossein further elaborated on the significance of this funding, highlighting its role in fostering cutting-edge research in hemp trait development and its implications for higher quality and consistency in hemp production.
Health Canada’s Approval of Vendetta Cultivar
In addition to the funding news, Cannabis Orchards recently announced that its hemp cultivar Vendetta has been officially added to the Health Canada List of Approved Cultivars as of August 12, 2024. Vendetta is notable for being the first hemp variety with a near 1:1 ratio of CBD to cannabidivarin (CBDV), a minor cannabinoid that is gaining attention for its therapeutic potential.
Starting in Spring 2025, this cultivar will be available to licensed hemp growers in Canada, with biomass expected to be made available to commercial processors by Fall 2025.
Paving the Way for a Thriving Hemp Industry
The funding secured by Cannabis Orchards marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Canadian hemp industry. Through the development of innovative hemp varieties that focus on minor cannabinoids, the company is not only enhancing the agricultural landscape but also paving the way for therapeutic advancements in cannabinoid applications. As these projects unfold, they are set to bolster the profitability and sustainability of hemp farming in Canada, benefiting both producers and consumers alike. With cultivars like Vendetta on the horizon, the future of the Canadian hemp industry looks promising.
If your business is planning research projects, don’t miss our Research & Funding Directory. This resource provides an in-depth look at the funding programs available to help you cover key costs, including technology development, process improvement, and workforce training. Whether you’re looking to boost innovation or scale operations, our directory can guide you to the right funding opportunities to support your goals.
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