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B.C. funds on-farm tech adoption

B.C. farmers looking to grow their businesses in the face of rising costs are getting support for accessing new technologies. Items such as robotic and automated equipment, farm-management software and digital sensors will help them increase production, efficiency and profitability.

The new B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program will provide as much as $3 million over the next two years from the governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Sustainable CAP.

“We are listening to B.C. farmers and know that the cost to upgrade or introduce new technologies is a barrier for many, especially those with smaller farm operations,” said Pam Alexis, B.C.’s minister of agriculture and food. “With this new program, we’re providing support that can help farmers, now and in the future, so they can be more competitive, improve their bottom line and produce more food to feed our communities.”

The program will provide immediate assistance to B.C. farmers so they can access on-farm technologies and innovations to help deal with the effects of labour shortages and operational cost increases due to inflation and supply-chain disruptions.

“Without innovation, there is no forward progress. I have seen first-hand the benefits of adopting proven growing methods that are used elsewhere in the world,” said James Bergen, owner of Bergen Farms. “I am certain that this program will help growers in adopting innovative farming techniques that will improve efficiency, increase yields and allow for better management of resources.”

Applications for first year of the program are now open and will be accepted until Dec. 22, or until funds are fully allocated. Innovate BC, through the Integrated Marketplace initiative, will deliver the program.