We’ve all seen it—climate change is no longer a distant threat. It’s knocking on the doors of farms, ranches, and greenhouses across the country. Agriculture, while essential, also leaves a hefty carbon footprint. But here’s the good news: Canada is stepping up with a powerful response—the New Agricultural Clean Technology Program (ACTP). Whether you’re a farmer, agribusiness owner, or just passionate about sustainable living, this program is a game-changer.
Let’s break it all down together—without the jargon, without the fluff—just the straight-up facts and how they matter to you.
What Is the Agricultural Clean Technology Program?
Think of the Agricultural Clean Technology Program as a turbo boost for green farming. It’s a federal initiative from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) designed to help the agri-food sector reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt clean technologies. The latest version of the program, launched in 2021 and updated in 2024, provides funding for projects that make farming operations more sustainable, energy-efficient, and innovative.
The program plays a key role in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and aims to help the country achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. But more than that, it’s about helping farmers and agri-businesses stay competitive and profitable in a changing climate.
Why Should Farmers and Agri-Businesses Care?
Let’s be honest: the word “sustainability” gets tossed around a lot. But this time, it’s backed by real-world benefits and actual funding. Here’s why the Agricultural Clean Technology Program matters:
- You can get government funding to offset your costs
- You reduce long-term energy bills
- You stay ahead of industry regulations
- You attract customers who value eco-friendly practices
- You contribute to environmental protection while improving profitability
When you put it all together, going green isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also smart business.
How Much Funding Is Available?
Here’s the part everyone’s curious about: the funding.
The program is backed by $495.7 million in funding to be distributed over several years. Here’s how it’s split up:
- Adoption Stream: Covers up to 50% of project costs for most applicants, and up to 60% for underrepresented groups (like Indigenous or women-led organizations).
- Research and Innovation Stream: Provides funding for testing and developing clean tech prototypes, pilot projects, and cutting-edge solutions.
And here’s the kicker: this funding is non-repayable. That means if you qualify, it’s yours—no strings attached.
Understanding the Two Program Streams
Let’s simplify things with a breakdown of the two main parts of the program.
Adoption Stream
This stream is designed for farmers and agri-businesses that are ready to implement clean tech solutions right now. If you’ve already identified a system that can reduce emissions or boost energy efficiency, this is where you want to apply.
Examples of eligible projects include:
- Installing geothermal heating and cooling systems
- Adding solar or wind energy to power your operations
- Using anaerobic digesters to generate biogas from farm waste
- Upgrading to more energy-efficient equipment
If your project improves environmental performance and productivity, there’s a good chance it fits the bill.
Research and Innovation Stream
This stream focuses on the future. If your organization is involved in research or technology development, this is your lane. The goal here is to fund breakthrough solutions that could change the game for agriculture.
Some qualifying projects include:
- Developing and testing soil carbon capture systems
- Creating smart agriculture tools that use artificial intelligence
- Designing advanced water and nutrient management systems
Who’s Eligible to Apply?
Now, let’s talk about whether you can actually apply. The good news? A wide range of groups are eligible.
You can apply if you are:
- A Canadian for-profit business (like a farm or food processor)
- A not-for-profit or cooperative involved in agriculture
- An Indigenous organization or community group
- An academic institution or research body
Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds (including youth, women, and Indigenous entrepreneurs) may also qualify for higher funding limits.
What’s the Application Process Like?
We won’t lie—grant applications can be a bit of a process. But if you’re organized and clear about your goals, it’s absolutely manageable.
Here’s what you’ll need to submit:
- A clear description of your project, timeline, and environmental impact
- A detailed budget and explanation of costs
- Business and project documentation (licenses, proof of incorporation, etc.)
The key is to show how your project supports emission reduction, productivity, and sustainability. Working with an experienced clean tech partner like Envirotech Geothermal can really help streamline the process.
What Types of Technology Are Eligible?
Agricultural Clean Technology Program supports a wide range of green tech, but it’s mainly focused on three categories. Let’s look at what those are.
1. Green Energy
If your project involves switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy, it’s likely a good fit. This includes:
- Geothermal systems for heating and cooling
- Solar power systems
- Wind turbines
- Biomass and bioenergy installations
2. Precision Agriculture
The goal here is to improve farming efficiency while using fewer resources. Think smart farming tools that reduce waste and boost yields.
Examples include:
- Drone-based crop monitoring
- Soil and moisture sensors
- Automated irrigation systems
- GPS-guided planting and harvesting
3. Bioeconomy Solutions
This category supports projects that turn agricultural by-products into usable energy or materials.
Some project ideas:
- Anaerobic digesters for converting waste to energy
- Composting systems for large-scale nutrient recycling
- Producing bioplastics or biofuels from crop residues
How Can Envirotech Geothermal Help?
At Envirotech Geothermal, we specialize in clean energy systems for farms and agri-businesses. From designing geothermal heating systems for your barns to helping you add solar panels to your greenhouse, we know how to make clean energy work in real-world ag settings.
And when it comes to the Agricultural Clean Technology Program? We’re not just installers—we’re your funding support team. We can help with:
- Assessing your site and energy needs
- Designing a project that meets ACTP requirements
- Writing and submitting your application
- Installing and maintaining your new system
We’re here to make sure your project is not only successful but fully optimized to receive funding.
When Should You Apply?
Timing is everything. Agricultural Clean Technology Program applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, which means funding is awarded as applications come in—until the money runs out.
Translation? You don’t want to wait. Here’s what to do:
- Start identifying your clean tech needs now
- Contact a qualified provider (that’s us)
- Submit your application as early as possible
Is It Worth the Effort?
Absolutely. Yes, it takes some paperwork and planning. But the benefits go far beyond the funding.
You’re investing in long-term savings, better resilience, and a positive brand image. Customers and suppliers alike are looking for partners who care about sustainability. And as more regulations kick in, being ahead of the curve could make all the difference.
If you’ve ever thought about going green, this is your moment.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Agriculture Is Sustainable
The Agricultural Clean Technology Program isn’t just another government initiative—it’s a real opportunity to future-proof your operation. Whether you’re reducing your carbon footprint, cutting utility bills, or simply staying ahead of the curve, the Agricultural Clean Technology Program offers the resources to make it happen.
Ready to take the leap into clean energy for your farm or agri-business? Envirotech Geothermal is here to help you every step of the way. Let’s build a more sustainable future—starting right now.
Contact us today at Envirotech Geothermal to get started on your ACTP project.
