Agtech Growth Fund
The Agtech Growth Fund (AGF) accelerates the commercialization of game-changing innovations in Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector.
AGF: Agtech Research & Development Funding
Open Intakes
AGF provides non-repayable grants of up to $450,000 for the development of novel technological solutions that address specific industry challenges and benefit Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector.
International and out-of-province applicants aiming to drive innovation in Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector can review AGF Out-of-Province Applicants for detailed information on eligibility and application processes.
Program Highlights
- Financing Type: Grants
- Eligible Funding: Up to $450,000 per project
- Goal: Advancing technological innovations in the province’s agriculture sector
Eligibility
- Saskatchewan-based companies advancing novel innovations for industry challenges
- Technological solutions benefit agriculture sector
For funding opportunities across Saskatchewan’s core sectors explore the Saskatchewan Advantage Innovation Fund (SAIF).
Overview
With more than 40 per cent of Canada’s cultivated farmland, Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector is a powerhouse of economic potential, renowned worldwide for its exceptional crop production, livestock and agri-food processing capabilities.
AGF provides tech startups with non-dilutive funding specifically designed to propel groundbreaking, industry-driven research & development (R&D) projects. This support enables startups to turn their innovative ideas into impactful solutions that address pressing challenges in agriculture, positioning them at the forefront of Saskatchewan’s vibrant agricultural sector.
Applicants applying to both AGF and the Saskatchewan Technology Startup Incentive (STSI) are limited to a lifetime cap of $900,000 combined between the two programs. Funds from AGF and SAIF are not stackable. Proponents applying to both programs will be directed to submit their funding request to the program deemed most appropriate for their project.
Since 2020
ROI Based on Leveraged Funds*
Jobs Created*
Federal Investment Attracted
AGF Investment Committed
* based on data provided by program recipients
Since 2020
ROI Based on Leveraged Funds
Jobs
Created
Federal Investment Attracted
AGF Investment Committed
AGF-Funded Projects
Discover some of Saskatchewan’s agtech innovators.
BetterCart Analytics
- $135,000
Developing an advanced AI-driven price analytics platform that that reduces food costs in the supply chain from distributor to customer.
Pathoscan Technologies
- $75,000
LiORA by EMS
- $378,000
Novel soil sensor that will provide real-time measurement of moisture and nitrogen in the root zone, as well as collect data on soil properties that impact nutrient uptake.
Precision AI
- $250,000
Combining large language models with precision agriculture instrumentation to create a digital agronomist.
Funding Eligibility
Here’s what you need to apply.
The proposal is put forth by a group of active industry partners representing the project’s value chain (e.g., researchers, production & supply process, end users, etc.) and participating through cash/in-kind contribution, equity investment and/or letter of intent to purchase.
- Priority is given to proposals with an academic partner from a Saskatchewan post-secondary or research institute.
The project is led by a Saskatchewan-based organization. The project group can consist of non-Saskatchewan organizations, providing the majority have headquarter presence in the province.
- Projects led by non-Saskatchewan-based organizations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
The proposal demonstrates how the technological innovation solves a specific industry challenge and benefits the agriculture sector as a whole.
The proposed solution is novel and innovative.
The proposal demonstrates a feasible path to commercialization and how the benefits of the project will be sustained over the long term.
Industry partners must provide 50+ per cent of the project’s budget and the funding request is for more than 30 per cent of the proposed budget.
Stacking Policy: Applicants applying for AGF and STSI are limited to a lifetime cap between the two programs. Funds from AGF and SAIF are not stackable. Proponents applying to both programs will be directed to submit their funding request to the program deemed most appropriate for their project.
Intake Periods
Spring Intake
- April 30: Deadline for Expressions of Interest
- May 31: Invitations for full proposals sent
- July 31: Deadline for full proposals
- September 30: Funding decisions made
Fall Intake
- September 30: Deadline for Expressions of Interest
- October 31: Invitations for full proposals sent
- December 31: Deadline for full proposals
- February 28: Funding decisions made
How to Apply
Review the Program Guide to confirm eligibility
Create a user account on the Online Application Portal and complete the expression of interest form.
After the initial evaluation process, Innovation Saskatchewan will invite successful applicants to complete full proposals*
After the final evaluation process, successful applicants will receive confirmation of the funding*
* in accordance with the intake period schedule
Applicants are encouraged to work with Innovation Saskatchewan to refine their application and full proposal in advance of final submissions.
Consult the Program Guide for full program structure and application process details.
Have questions?
Contact us today to learn how Innovation Saskatchewan and our partners can support you.
