(SeaPRwire) –   TORONTO, May 8, 2026 – Canadian agri-businesses are at the forefront of developing new solutions to reduce emissions and enhance agricultural resilience. The Government of Canada is backing these efforts by collaborating with nonprofit agtech organizations across the country to support science-driven small and medium-sized enterprises in advancing innovative technologies that strengthen the economy while safeguarding the environment.

Today, Danielle Martin, Member of Parliament for University–Rosedale, announced a commitment of up to $3,250,000 in funding for MaRS Discovery District under the Agricultural Clean Technology Program Research and Innovation Stream – Accelerator (ACT Accelerator). MaRS Discovery District is among six nonprofit organizations selected to fund projects that promote the development and adoption of clean technologies in agriculture throughout Canada. Earlier today, MP Martin also announced the full ACT Accelerator investment of up to $30 million on behalf of the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

Through this initiative under the ACT Accelerator, MaRS Discovery District will distribute additional funding to Canadian companies pioneering clean technologies for agriculture and the food sector, enabling them to test and showcase the effectiveness of their innovations. In addition, MaRS will offer guidance and support to help these businesses refine and expand their technological solutions. This project seeks to foster more environmentally sustainable farming and food production, while strengthening links between companies, investors, and customers. Farm Credit Canada and other partners are contributing their support to this effort.

This investment through the ACT Accelerator will ensure Canadian producers and agri-food businesses gain access to a broader array of advanced technologies, helping build a more competitive and environmentally responsible sector.

Quotes

“By forming strong partnerships and investing in MaRS Discovery District’s ACT Accelerator project, we are continuing to enable innovators nationwide to develop and scale clean technologies that will keep our farms competitive and preserve a healthy environment for future generations.”

–   The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“We are pleased to support MaRS Discovery District as they facilitate the delivery of clean technology solutions to farmers, food producers, and agtech innovators across the country. By fostering collaboration between technology developers and end-users, our goal through this project is to demonstrate how teamwork can drive meaningful progress and growth in the agtech industry.”

–   Danielle Martin, Member of Parliament for University–Rosedale

“This investment arrives at a pivotal moment for Canada’s agriculture and food sector. Through our Food and Agtech Mission powered by Farm Credit Canada, MaRS is mobilizing capital and engaging early adopters. This funding will allow more companies to accelerate the commercialization and implementation of Canadian innovations addressing key supply chain challenges within the sector. Together, we are building a more resilient and sustainable food system.”

–   Grace Lee Reynolds, CEO, MaRS Discovery District

Quick Facts

• The Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program offers funding to farmers and agri-businesses to help them develop and adopt cutting-edge clean technologies that lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve long-term competitiveness.
• The ACT Program supports the Government of Canada’s target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 45–50% below 2005 levels by 2035.
• The ACT Accelerator allocates funds to eligible nonprofit organizations (Initial Recipients), which then pass these resources on to other organizations (Ultimate Recipients) to advance research and innovation goals.
• Projects and final funding amounts are contingent upon the negotiation of a contribution agreement.
• Established in 2000 and headquartered in Toronto, MaRS Discovery District designs and delivers customized programs, services, and products focused on mentorship, networking, talent acquisition, revenue expansion, and access to capital.

Additional Links

• Agricultural Clean Technology Program Research and Innovation Stream – Accelerator
• MaRS Discovery District

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Website: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

SOURCE: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada