Government of Canada : New Technology for Island Organic Veggie Producer

Federal government supports expansion at Atlantic Grown Organics

January 18, 2018 - Spring Valley, PE - Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Investing in innovative companies like Atlantic Canada's leading food producers supports vital rural-based jobs. As local and global markets for organic produce continue to grow, producers must evolve strategically to keep up with demand. Thanks to support from the Government of Canada, Atlantic Grown Organics will be able to diversify its products and increase efficiency at the operation, while ensuring consistent quality that Canadians expect.

The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), today announced funding for the next phase of development at Atlantic Grown Organics Ltd.

A repayable contribution of $238,007, provided through ACOA's Business Development Program, is enabling the company to expand its facility and purchase automated grading and packaging equipment.

This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy. The strategy supports strategic investments in initiatives that build on the region's competitive advantages, such as its thriving agriculture industry, strong export potential, growing innovation network, and skilled workforce.

Quotes

'Food producers in Canada continue to show leadership in business, bringing innovative solutions to a changing market. We are recognized globally for the quality and safety standards of our agriculture industry. The Government of Canada is pleased to invest in these essential job creators - the many farmers, producers and processors whose passion for the industry helps fuel the economy.'

• The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

'Throughout the years, Atlantic Grown Organics has demonstrated a knack for reading market trends and adapting. They have developed an excellent reputation with customers, and are continually looking for new products and new approaches to serve the organic market. This kind of forward thinking is essential to maintaining and growing a vibrant economy in rural PEI. '

• The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque

'The growing consumer desire for organic vegetables enabled our business to grow and this investment will help us keep up with those demands. This equipment will help support our employees and allow us to select exactly the tomato or pepper that our customer wants.'

• Marc and Krista Schurman, Owners, Atlantic Grown Organics Inc.

Quick Facts

• Since the 1970s, the Schurman family has operated a family farm, transitioning in 2001 from a primarily hog-focused operation to growing greenhouse produce.

• Atlantic Grown Organics' vegetables can be found throughout the year at the Shurman farm stand in Kensington and at the Charlottetown Farmers Market. Their tomatoes and cucumbers are also available at Sobey's and Atlantic Superstores.

• The company serves a growing network of small customers and direct sales clients throughout Atlantic Canada.

• Atlantic Grown Organics transitioned to certified organic in 2006 and now serves a growing network of grocery retailers and direct market clients throughout Atlantic Canada

Contacts

Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569

Marc and Krista Schurman
Atlantic Grown Organics
902-836-3929