JAKS Secures Support from CFIN to Advance Robotics in Manufacturing

The Canadian Food Innovation Network announced today that it is awarding nearly $500,000 across six food-tech projects throughout Canada.

“These six projects represent CFIN’s vision for a future where new ideas and technologies create a more efficient, sustainable, and customer-centric food industry,” stated Dana McCauley, chief executive of CFIN. “As we introduce intelligent solutions, autonomous robots, and state-of-the-art technologies, it’s clear that Canadians aren’t just embracing change in the food sector—we’re the ones driving it.”

Of the six projects, one is based in British Columbia.

That project, titled “Robotic Paneer Handling & Packaging,” is being led by Salmon Arm’s JAKS Automation.

Launched in 2020, the B.C. tech startup aims to advance automation and robotics within Canada’s manufacturing sector.

JAKS’ project involves implementing a robotic pick-and-place system in a paneer production facility. A cutting-edge system handles three sizes of paneer while utilizing a food-grade precision suction-based robotic end effector, according to the company, using state-of-the-art machine vision to identify and retrieve from conveyors.

This process optimizes production, ensuring precision and reducing waste from mishandling, according to Adon Portman, principal at JAKS.

“We are thrilled to be supported by CFIN as we make strides in advancing the adoption of modern robotics and automation in the food and beverage industry in Western Canada,” Portman stated.

Since 2021, CFIN’s Innovation Booster provides funding and support to SMEs to help them accelerate product development, overcome innovation hurdles, and validate market fit.

“These projects will provide Canadian businesses with invaluable insights on integrating advanced robotics and intelligent machine learning into their current business models to the benefit of both industry and Canadians,” stated François-Philippe Champagne Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry.

During this eighth round of Innovation Booster funding, CFIN received 31 applications nationwide.

“Innovation is vitally important to the success of our foodtech sector,” stated Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food in Canada. “Projects like these will help drive efficiencies, increase sustainability, and address key challenges in Canada’s agricultural industry.”

JAKS Automation was awarded $28,405 toward its project.

In total, 43 Canadian foodtech companies have received $3.6 million from the program since 2021.

Across all programs, CFIN has awarded more than $19M to 65 Canadian foodtech projects.