SVG Ventures releases Alberta ag tech report

SVG Ventures | Thrive, Silicon Valley, released its latest report “Realizing the Potential for AgTech in Alberta,” which highlights the key role Alberta, Canada’s agriculture sector can play in building economic resilience and positioning the province for a prosperous and sustainable future.

SVG’s report was prepared for the government of Alberta and developed in partnership with Olds College and the United Farmers of Alberta. The report showed advancement of the sector starts on the farm, and innovation is fundamental to help farmers produce food more efficiently.

“Innovation is critical to the success of Albertan agriculture and eliminating barriers to technology adoption is key,” says John Hartnett, founder and CEO of SVG Ventures | Thrive. “When these barriers are eliminated, Alberta is well poised to be a global leader in agricultural innovation.”

The initiative was supported by an investment of $200,000 from the governments of Canada and Alberta through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

Empowering farmers will be a vital first step to ensure agriculture will be a leading player in Alberta’s economic recovery, but a collaborative, ecosystem-driven approach will be required to lift barriers to adoption of new solutions.

“Innovation and technology are key to growing a sustainable agriculture sector that helps Canada remain competitive,” says Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “Alberta’s farmers are at the forefront of this economy, and this report highlights the role that cutting-edge technology and solutions will play in supporting farmers to grow their businesses, feed a growing population and protect the environment.”

Farmers, while poised with a unique opportunity to advance Alberta’s agricultural sector and drive the province’s economic recovery, will require involvement from others to reach this goal. An approach that engages a multitude of key industry stakeholders will be required to reduce barriers, increase adoption and diversify and grow the economy.

“This report outlines what we’ve been saying for a while — Alberta agriculture is an exciting field to be in right now,” says Nate Horner, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development. “It will drive the province’s economic recovery and continue to grow, diversify and create good jobs. We’re proud to work with our partners to increase the industry’s tech adoption, innovation and resilience.”

Visit SVG Ventures’ website to read the full report.