Technologies
The Netherlands is one of the world’s leading agricultural production countries in Controlled Environment Agriculture (or CEA technologies) and is recognized by economist Michael Porter as one of the world’s foremost agri-food clusters. CEA is based on the idea that plants have to be maintained in optimal growing conditions and protected when necessary from the elements. CEA technologies include hydroponics, aeroponics, aquaculture, and aquaponics, and because plants are grown indoors, few if any pesticides are used. We also believe that production using compost teas may be a further innovation to continue to improve the methods in the direction of organic products.
AIM to Grow takes advantage of this know-how and wants to translate it into practical Canadian content, recognizing the need to adapt technologies to colder climates and more rigorous growing conditions.
Our platform is based on the triple helix – comprising companies, educational and research organizations, government agencies, and the public, to develop meaningful ties between Dutch and Canadian partners, and to ensure the long-term success of the program.
Opportunities exist for collaboration with local partners, including in testing and R&D, to fine tune existing technologies to better withstand the rigors and challenges of the Canadian climate, making Canada a leading partner in cold climate CEA technologies.