Province makes investment aimed at growing or expanding greenhouse operations

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on December 11, 2025.

To continue ramping up greenhouse food production in Alberta, the province has introduced a new $10-million three-year Growing Greenhouses accelerator program for the construction or expansion of greenhouses and vertical farms.

Ag Minister RJ Sigurdson on Wednesday announced the new funding program, which will also fund technologies that increase food production and improve energy efficiency in greenhouses.

The funding program was created in alignment with needs identified by the greenhouse sector and the province says its goal is to reduce the amount of seasonal import reliance for shoppers entering fall, which often drives up prices for fruit and vegetables.

“Ensuring Albertans have access to safe, high-quality food,” said Sigurdson. “We are continually working to build resilience and sustainability into our food production systems, increase opportunities for producers and processors, create jobs and feed Albertans.”

According to the government the funding program was also created in alignment with Alberta’s Buy Local initiative, launched earlier this year in response to ongoing tariffs imposed by the United States.

The program will support investments in renewable and efficient energy systems, advanced lighting systems, energy-saving construction and automation, as well as robotic systems.

“This program strengthens local communities, drives innovation and creates new opportunities for agricultural entrepreneurs, reinforcing Canada’s food system and economy,” said federal Ag Minister Heath MacDonald.

The province’s greenhouse sector ranks fourth in the county with 195 greenhouses producing approximately $145 million in produce annually. However, Alberta still imports $349 million in fresh produce every year.

“This program is a game changer for Alberta’s greenhouse sector,” said Michiel Verheul, president of Alberta Greenhouse Growers Association. “By investing in expansion and innovation, we can grow more fresh produce year-round, reduce reliance on imports and strengthen food security for Albertans.”

Data suggests greenhouse food production in Alberta is growing by more than six per cent annually.