Research

Background 

In 2021, a grassroots group was formed to review robotics and automation as an opportunity to solve critical issues facing the agricultural sector – specifically focused on outdoor field crops at the present time. These issues include labour, optimizing production, and increasing competitiveness. The goal of the AgRobotics Working Group is to bring together a cross-functional group of members to reduce barrier to robotics/ automation adoption.  

Guiding Principles 

This project is guided by items outlined in the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). Under the Building Sector Capacity, Grown and Competitiveness Priority Area and Productive Designed Program, this project will contribute to intermediate and/or crosscutting outcomes such as: 

  • The sector has modernized its systems, equipment, and facilities and implemented new practices, processes, and technologies.  

  • The sector has increased capacity through new technologies, equipment, practices or processes 

  • The sector has increased capacity and growth across the entire agri-food value chain.  

Key Goals 

The key goal of the Research is to de-risk adoption by: 

  • Undertaking applied research to test and demonstrated robotics and technologies at the commercial field scale level to ensure they meet producer needs 

  • Sharing this knowledge at knowledge translation and transfer events 

Focus  

The Western Fair Association, through the AgRobotics Working Group, is seeking interested producers, or commercial robotics companies, to test and demonstrate technology at the commercial field scale level. 

Note, we still have some funds available for projects between Sept. 26, 2025 and Mar. 31, 2026. This could be modifications to a robotic unit for a 2026 growing season project or a Fall 2025 project. Complete the application information below to apply.

Timelines for 2026 Projects:  

  • Oct. 1, 2025 – Dec. 31, 2025: Application period for proposals 

  • Jan. 1, 2026 – Jan. 30, 2026: Proposal review and selection 

  • Feb. 15, 2026: Notification to successful applicants 

  • Feb. 25, 2026: Notification to unsuccessful applicants 

  • Mar. 1, 2026: Presentation of Summer Projects to AgRobotics Working Group 

  • May 1, 2026: Projects commence (unless start date otherwise changed) 

  • July 1-31, 2026: Presentation to ARWG on status of project 

  • Oct. 30, 2026: Project end 

  • Nov. 1-30, 2026: Presentation to ARWG on status of project 

  • Dec. 29, 2026: Final report due to ARWG for review before adding to Annual Report 

In the event that there is funding remaining, Western Fair District will direct the research sub-committee to provide further information on timelines to accept proposals on a rolling basis.  

Program Guide
Budget Worksheet
Research Proposal Template
Application form