The Ontario government is investing more than $41 million over the next four years to build and revitalize .Agricultural Research and Innovation Ontario (ARIO) infrastructure. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this investment boosts Ontario-led innovation to give farmers access to cutting-edge solutions that help Ontario’s agri-food sector stay resilient and competitive in the global market.

“Our government is taking action to protect Ontario’s agri-food sector, and we are proud to support farmers and business owners,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Through investments in research and innovation, we are ensuring farmers and business owners have the best solutions to remain competitive against tariffs and ensure families can continue to buy high-quality, Ontario-made food with pride.”

As part of this funding, Ontario is investing an additional $10.5 million in the new Ontario Poultry Research Centre at the Elora Research Station. The new facility will support Ontario’s 1,200 chicken and turkey producers and 432 egg farmers by boosting research on animal welfare, reproduction and meat quality and safety. This funding is in addition to the $13.5 million previously committed by the Ontario government, bringing the total provincial contribution to $24 million. 

The University of Guelph will lead the construction and revitalization of critical agri-food research capacity.  

Other ARIO facilities receiving funding include:

• -  $15.5 million in funding for the new Ontario Feed Innovation Centre at the Elora Research Station to provide micro-scale nutritional research for swine, poultry, small ruminants and aquaculture.
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• -  Repairs and upgrades to other properties across the network, including the Dairy Education Centre at the Ridgetown campus, to ensure the continuation of cutting-edge research and innovation to benefit farmers and agribusinesses across Ontario.

ARIO is an agency of the Government of Ontario and owns the province’s network of strategic agri-food research infrastructure, including 14 research station properties, with 5,600 acres and more than 200 buildings. Their focus on agri-food research and innovation in areas such as field crops, livestock, greenhouse, horticulture, aquaculture and soil health helps translate research into practical solutions for farmers and agribusinesses.

Source: Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness October 7, 2025 news release