C aSnma adlilaBnuBs ui nsei ns es sAswAawr da rsd2s022032|44|94 9 a noble mission has only been made possible by a dedicated team of experts, which makes the selecting of team members critical. Marilou explains that there is thus a five-fold process when it comes to recruitment, with candidates having to; embody a strong commitment to clean and sustainable agricultural technologies, possess a desire to make a positive impact on future generations, demonstrate the necessary skills in the areas of project management and technological innovation, own relevant experience in the field, and show engagement with science, technology, and agriculture. Thanks to its exemplary team, Zone Agtech has achieved a great deal in just four years, and Marilou sheds further light on the elements that she and her team are the most proud of, such as create one of the biggest agtech community in Canada, and developped close collaboration with Université Laval, North America’s leading French-language agricultural science university, and the five of Quebec’s leading horticultural associations. She tells us, “this partnership has been instrumental in accelerating the adoption of agricultural technologies among producers, marking a significant milestone in our mission to promote sustainable agricultural practices.” Similarly, when it comes to future projects, Marilou believes the best course of action is to further leverage emerging links with companies from the likes of Belgium, Sweden, and England who have sought engagement with this project. Ultimately, Zone Agtech consistently goes above and beyond to help those in the industry make their mark, with all of this contributing to a better future for all, whether in Quebec or abroad. On the back of such efforts, we present Zone Agtech with this recognition for its innovative agtech hub and the exceptional service it provides to its clients. In closing, Marilou tells us, “our achievements in fostering partnerships, advancing agricultural technologies, and drawing international attention underscore our dedication to creating a more sustainable and efficient agricultural sector for the present and future generations.” Company: Zone Agtech Web Address: www.zoneagtech.ca Zone Agtech is the first of its kind in Canada, with this innovation zone being wholly dedicated to crafting the innovative technologies and design solutions that will serve as the future of agriculture, such as the growing of richer, more nutritious food on less land and the production of valueadded bioproducts. Offering everything from hosting and experimenting spaces through to a networking schedule, financing, and access to local and international markets, Zone Agtech strives to continuously bring together a like-minded group of people who can aid it in achieving its overarching vision of value creation for the agtech (agricultural technology) and plant bioproducts sectors. Guided by the three primary objectives of stimulating innovation in the field of agtech and plant bioproducts, increasing its members standing in the market, and promoting Quebec’s agtech and plant bioproducts both locally and internationally, Zone Agtech serves as an incubator comprised of equal parts knowledge, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Aiding it immeasurably in this mission has been the establishment of a five-year programme with major stakeholders such as universities, research centres, and manufacturers, as well as the Agtech Community of Quebec, a body that brings together more than 250 members and partners to promote Quebec’ agtech initiatives. In less than three years, more than 140 different companies have been supported in their projects, five innovation/acceleration programmes and pathways have been deployed, six inter-order research chairs have been founded, 30 companies have had their direct investments confirmed by the municipality, and Quebec’s visibility in the space has been measurably improved through collaborations with seven countries. Providing more insight into this hub’s cutting-edge innovation programme, Marilou tells us, “its [four] priority verticals are controlled environment agriculture, robotics and agriculture 4.0, plant bioproducts and agroecology, and high-nutrientvalue and low-environmental-impact foods.” For each of these four areas, the availability of suitable premises is a key factor in success, with this accelerating both the achievement of the innovative project leaders in question and the speed at which these projects can be brought to market. Across its operations, Zone Agtech exists at the very forefront of sustainable practice and fostering clean technologies. Such Since its launching in February 2020 as part of the L’Assomption Regional County Municipality’s revitalisation strategy, Zone Agtech has specialised in carrying, deploying, and animating an innovative ecosystem on a regional level. Covering an area of 15 square kilometres, this business zone is dedicated solely to those companies operating in the field of indoor cultivation, field agriculture, and plant bioproducts, ensuring that the businesses and people within have access to the necessary tools and funding they need to accelerate their development and enter into the market. We speak with Managing Director Marilou Cyr, who tells us more about this pioneering hub. Most Innovative AgTech Hub 2024 & Client Service Excellence Award
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