We spent quality time in Ottawa this week with amazing people from across the entire Agri-Food value chain!
Next time I load the dishwasher, I’ll be thinking about agriculture innovation… This week, at the Future of Food conference hosted by FCC / FAC it felt like almost the entire value chain (or at least 750 of us) gathered to celebrate Canada's Agriculture Day. Incredible thought leaders (like Michèle Boudria, Vidya ShankarNarayan, and Murad Al-Katib, just to name a few) helped drive numerous important conversations forward, ranging from the role of industry collaboration to hacking agri-tech solutions. But three specific ideas resonated with me the most: 1) Reframing Innovation: We should view our sector’s approach to innovation differently. Innovation doesn't replace labour; rather, it fundamentally changes the time and labour required. Much like having a dishwasher in your kitchen doesn't mean you never handle dishes, but it sure makes the process easier.✨ 2) Scaling Opportunities: Canadian agriculture doesn't have a start-up problem; it has a scale-up problem. We have room to grow, address gaps, and significantly contribute to Canada's GDP while still becoming global leaders in sustainable agriculture. 3)Breaking Down Silos: We're still grappling with siloed approaches across the industry (pun intended). To prevent duplication of initiatives and efforts (think MRV systems or labour recruitment strategies), we must improve communication, pinpoint duplication, and prioritize the most realistic opportunities for success. To me, one thing is clear: For anyone, especially young people, looking for an industry to bet on, find value in, and grow alongside, Canadian agriculture is the answer. Happy Canada's Ag Day! Thank you to Canadian Food Innovation Network, FCC / FAC, Canadian Agri-Food Automation & Intelligence Network, Food and Beverage Canada - Aliments et boissons Canada and the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) for hosting. #cdnagday #futureoffood
