B.C. farmers are getting support to enhance their businesses and boost local food security with new technology. The B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program is open for applications until April 6, 2026.
“This program is helping farmers in British Columbia adopt new technologies that directly address the unique challenges they are facing,” said Heath MacDonald, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “By providing access to innovative and practical solutions, our governments are ensuring that farmers have the tools they need to stay efficient and competitive.”
New technology for farm businesses
Farmers can use the funding to buy new technology, such as equipment and robotics that can operate independently and adapt to the environment around them. This includes:
- autonomous robotic arms for packing, stacking and wrapping
- machines for planting seeds and plant material, precisely and repeatably
- automated harvesters for gathering crops
Results of adopting labour-saving technologies
The program previously supported companies like Laughing Coyote Orchards in Summerland, who received help to buy an autonomous vehicle equipped with a mower. The Burro manages the mowing of the orchard throughout the growing season and is set up to transport materials, reducing manual labour for staff.
“We’re thrilled to add a Burro Grande to the orchard this season. It was made possible by the program’s funding,” said Joel Carter, owner and operator, Laughing Coyote Orchards Ltd. “We are hoping to save significant fuel and labour during the apple and cherry seasons, while getting comfortable with the latest autonomous tech.”
Collaborating to help secure a brighter future
Delivered by Innovate BC, the B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program is funded by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The partnership is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and resilience of Canada’s agriculture, agrifood and agriculture‐based products sector.
"Farmers across the province are navigating rising costs, labour pressures, and the need to do more with less," says Peter Cowan, CEO of Innovate BC. "We’re proud to work in collaboration with our government partners to continue this program and help strengthen a vital B.C. industry, while enabling farmers to build more resilient and competitive businesses."
The fully autonomous, all-electric mower, Burro Cortador, mowing in a blueberry orchard.