Greenbelt Microgreens has received $640,585 in funding to modernize a new 3.5 acre greenhouse facility with state-of-the-art technology in Hamilton.
The investment will allow producers to increase production of Canadian certified organic microgreens, bringing jobs and more local produce to the area, stimulating the local food economy.
“Our government is committed to making targeted investments in businesses who are creating growth and good jobs thanks to innovative new projects. We are proud of Greenbelt Microgreens and the vision of Ian Adamson,” said Hamilton West’s Member of Parliament Filomena Tassi. “Greenbelt Microgreens is meeting the growing local demand for organic food and supporting a healthy economy in the Hamilton area.”
The announcement of the funding, which is being made through the Growing Forward 2 AgriInnovation Program, was made earlier this week by Tassi, on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay.
The new greenhouse will feature an Acrylite roofing material—new to North America—that improves light penetration to increase the health and quality of plants, as well as a soil and fertilizing line specifically designed for microgreens, and a multiple variety seeding machine for microgreens.
Microgreens are young seedlings of edible vegetables and herbs harvested within 14 days of their germination stage, such as basil, cilantro and arugula.
As Ian Adamson, President of Greenbelt Greenhouse Ltd., said, local food is key to the Canadian economy.
“Innovations, such as these, are allowing our company to produce the highest quality organic lettuce and microgreens right here in Ontario, year round,” explains Adamson. “This is a major boost for the local food economy, we commit to employing local people and as an organic farm we are committed to the environment.”
Adamson also explains that 80% of organic produce in Canada is imported, and greenhouses are the solution.
“We are very pleased to have the federal governments Agri Innovation program help in funding these innovations,” shares Adamson.
The GHFFA is also excited to see such promising and innovative investment in deserving Golden Horseshoe food businesses.
View the full news release from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada here.