New Investment Supports Digital Farming Innovations
Canada and Manitoba are making significant strides in agricultural technology with a $2.025 million investment in the Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative (EMILI).
This funding is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), announced by the federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, and Premier Wab Kinew at the grand opening of the Innovation Farms Centre.
The Innovation Farms Centre, a newly opened facility, is set on a 5,500-acre operational farm. It showcases the latest in agricultural technology and processes.
The centre itself spans 8,500 square feet and includes a variety of functional spaces such as workshops, meeting rooms, and a control centre displaying data from over 50 sensors.
EMILI, established in 2016, is a non-profit organization dedicated to integrating digital technology in farming.
Its mission is to equip Manitoba farmers with the skills to navigate and leverage digital advancements, filling the existing skills gap in the agricultural workforce.
Premier Wab Kinew emphasized the essential role of Manitoba's farmers and producers in both the local economy and global food supply. He highlighted the government's support through initiatives like EMILI, which are designed to foster agricultural innovation.
This support is expected to help producers reduce operational costs, enhance crop yields, and adopt more sustainable practices.
Kinew views these developments as beneficial not only for the economy but also for the environment, having a positive impact across multiple sectors.
Minister Lawrence MacAulay also highlighted the transformative impact of digital technologies, "This program under Sustainable CAP will enable farmers in Manitoba to adopt advanced digital technologies, gaining crucial insights into their operations, enhancing efficiency, and maintaining competitiveness in the agriculture sector."
Ron Kostyshyn, Manitoba's Minister of Agriculture, added, "Supporting Manitoba producers in embracing digital technology is crucial for the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector, creating jobs and promoting innovation."
Jacqueline Keena, Managing Director of EMILI, expresses gratitude towards the Canadian and Manitoban governments for their financial support of the Innovation Farms initiative. She highlights the investment's role in fostering the growth of Manitoba's agricultural technology sector.
Keena points out that technological advancements facilitated by this funding will not only create new business opportunities and jobs but also help sustain existing employment.
She also emphasizes that the support will enhance EMILI's capabilities in providing the agricultural community, including farmers, students, and researchers, with access to modern technologies and equipment.
This access is expected to lead to greater sustainability and improved productivity in the sector.
Additionally, the Manitoba Diversification Centres and the annual field days, as integral parts of this initiative, facilitate ongoing research and demonstrations, furthering the adoption of best practices and new technologies in agriculture.
This partnership exemplifies a committed step towards modernizing agriculture in Manitoba, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone of the economy and an area of continuous innovation and growth.