The Province of British Columbia is forecasting the creation of hundreds of new jobs in areas like science and technology following investments into an array of regional agriculture projects.
The government recently revealed more than $15 million in investments across 19 new projects and nine training programs.
The round of funding includes support from the B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation as well as from industry partners.
“Our province is home to vibrant agriculture and technology sectors—and our government is standing strong to keep them safe during times of global uncertainty,” stated Diana Gibson, B.C.’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation.
“Through the B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation, our government is bolstering our economy and leveraging our strengths to help local agritech and agrifood businesses bring more B.C. goods to market, advance food security, and create good jobs for people by growing industry here at home,” the minister continued.
Since opening in September of 2022, the BCCAI has created over 70 jobs and launched more than 30 projects with 28 agriculture businesses and over 50 delivery partners. The entity has also brought 19 products, services, and processes to market, as well as trained more than 1,100 personnel.
This latest investment is anticipated to generate nearly 200 more jobs.
“Across British Columbia, forward-thinking innovators are developing technology that is transforming agriculture in our province,” stated Harjit Sajjan, the federal minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada. “By partnering with the B.C. Centre for Agritech Innovation, the Government of Canada is supporting local food producers, strengthening our supply chains and growing a skilled workforce.”
The investments will result in more resilient and productive agriculture industry in the province, according to a statement from the government, as companies enhance their technology and universities add agtech upskilling opportunities.
“Supporting our province’s food producers and agritech innovators is critical to building a sustainable, local food supply, as well as contributing to new jobs and economic growth in B.C.,” believes Lana Popham, B.C.’s Minister of Agriculture and Food.
“Through our partnership with the BC Centre for Agritech Innovation, we are helping small and medium-sized businesses develop new technologies and tools to support farmers and enhance food security for British Columbians,” she said.
Operating out of Simon Fraser University, the BCCAI is powered by both provincial and federal funding.
Leave a Reply