Protein Industries Canada Launches Advanced AI Project Initiative

Protein Industries Canada has announced a major initiative to drive innovation in the agriculture and food sectors through artificial intelligence. A substantial investment of up to $20 million is set to be co-invested in projects that harness AI technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability across the entire agriculture and food production process.

AI in Agriculture and Food Production

The expanded initiative falls under the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, aiming to encompass various stages of the value chain, including seed genetics, on-farm production, ingredient manufacturing, food processing, and logistics. The reliance on AI is becoming increasingly paramount as the industry faces challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and the growing global population's food demands.

Fostering Development and Innovation

Interested consortiums are encouraged to submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs) that contribute to outcomes like accelerating seed genetics commercialization, on-farm advanced decision-making support, enhanced production yields, supply chain optimization, new ingredient and food formulation development, and improved quality assurance and food safety protocols.

Engagement and Support

Canadian companies in the agriculture and food sectors that aim to integrate AI into their operations have the opportunity to participate in the initiative. The Data Readiness Improvement Projects (DRIP), in collaboration with Protein Industries Canada, can serve as a gateway for companies to explore AI's potential benefits. The window for EOIs opens on November 27 and will conclude on January 31, 2024, with projects being assessed on a first-come basis.

investment, technology, innovation