About the Agri-Food Tech Project
The Agri-Food Tech Project began with the MIT Regional Entrepreneurial Acceleration Program (REAP), a global initiative designed to strengthen innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystems. It helps regions analyze strengths and challenges to develop strategies for sustainable economic development.
The Valley REAP team developed a concept to establish an Agricultural Technology (Ag-Tech) Accelerator in the Annapolis Valley and for the Valley to be part of a provincial Ag Tech Corridor. This initiative aims to:
The Valley REN’s Role
The Valley REN has been instrumental in the MIT REAP initiative, providing project management and backbone support. We are committed to transitioning the Ag-Tech Accelerator / Corridor concept from idea to execution through a phased approach.
Reports
Phase One
Engaged publicly funded stakeholders to gain insight into their willingness to participate in an impact network for ag tech acceleration. Created an Annapolis Valley digital asset map to aid decision-making for entrepreneurs and investors.
Phase Two
Research focused on the value of impact networks in agri-food tech, leading to a shift in focus from “ag-tech” to “agri-food tech”.
Phase Three
Conducted a global scan of ag-tech accelerators to identify best practices for implementation.
Next Steps
Further testing through pilot projects. Options for pilot projects are being refined and will be reviewed with stakeholders. The pilots are intended to lay the foundation for the Agri-food Tech Corridor and determine who is best suited to take the lead going forward.
Want to learn more?
If you’re interested in this project and any opportunities it may hold for you, please reach out to us.
Contact us today