The Greenhouse Produce Alliance of Canada (GPAC) welcomes the launch of the $750-million Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Growth Pathway Program, a significant investment from the Government of Canada within the National Food Security Strategy (NFSS) designed to strengthen Canada's domestic food production capacity, attracting private investment, accelerating innovation and enhancing long-term food security.

Operating within one of the world’s most competitive produce markets, the sector has consistently invested in advanced technologies, environmental stewardship, and production efficiencies that strengthen Canada's food supply while creating economic opportunities in communities across the country.

“Canadian greenhouse fruit and vegetable growers have built a globally recognized industry through innovation, entrepreneurship, and significant private investment,” said George Gilvesy, chair of GPAC. “The federal government’s investment in controlled environment agriculture recognizes the strategic importance of greenhouse food production and creates new opportunities to accelerate growth, strengthen food security, and enhance Canada’s competitiveness in domestic and international markets.”

GPAC believes the success of the program will depend on effective delivery and strong collaboration among industry stakeholders, Indigenous partners, academia, and governments. A coordinated approach will help maximize the return on public investment while supporting innovation, sustainable growth, and increased domestic food production capacity.

“Canada’s greenhouse sector has already demonstrated its ability to rapidly expand production, create high-quality jobs, and attract significant private capital,” said Julie Paillat, managing director of GPAC. “This announcement builds on momentum already established by growers and reinforces controlled environment agriculture as one of the most immediate and scalable solutions for increasing Canada's domestic food production. GPAC looks forward to working with the sector and government partners to ensure this investment delivers meaningful benefits for growers, consumers, and communities across Canada.”

As the national voice for greenhouse fruit and vegetable growers, GPAC will continue advocating for policies and investments that support industry growth, encourage innovation, strengthen Canada's food security, and ensure greenhouse operations remain globally competitive. This investment represents an important step toward unlocking the full potential of controlled environment agriculture as a driver of economic growth, sustainability, and year-round food production in Canada.

Source: Greenhouse Produce Alliance of Canada November 2, 2026 news release