National Research Council Supports New Ag Technology Development
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The National Research Council of Canada has announced that it will be making a contribution to Grow Safe Systems Ltd through their Industrial Research Assistance Program. The funding will go towards an innovative research and development project that will assist the group in developing software specifically for the agriculture industry.
Blake Richards, MP for Wild Rose, said on behalf of the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology): “Our government, through the Economic Action Plan, is investing in science and technology to create jobs, strengthen the economy and improve Canadians’ quality of life. This project will help Grow Safe develop innovative new technology that will stimulate the local economy while helping the cattle industry across Canada and around the world.”
The funding is in the amount of $269,000 and will be used by Grow Safe Systems to research, develop and market new technology that will measure cattle’s water intake in pasture as compared to in high-capacity feedlots. The technology will be used to identify and diagnose sick animals. The group is also developing technology that will allow producers to monitor feeding techniques, to ensure that they are maximizing cattle quality. In a statement, the president of the National Research Council, Dr. Pierre Coulombe, expressed his support for Grow Safe Systems’ technology and the far-reaching benefits of their programs:
“Investing in science and technology is critical for developing highly skilled people and improving the long-term competitiveness of Canadian firms. That’s why NRC-IRAP is helping innovative Canadian businesses such as Grow Safe Systems grow stronger, faster and bigger.”
Grow Safe’s clients include some of the world’s top agricultural universities, as well as commercial seed operations and research facilities. Through the government of Canada’s support, Grow Safe Systems hopes to leverage their internal research and development funding. In a statement, the president of Grow Safe Systems thanked the National Research Council for their support, saying it is a “valuable cornerstone to the foundation of [Grow Safe’s] technical and commercial success.”
The National Research Council’s Industrial Research Alliance Program was set up to provide a range of technical and business advisory services to qualified Canadian enterprises, as well as financial support. The program has received $200 million in funding through the government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
