Ontario is making a major investment in the future of poultry and agri-food innovation, committing more than $41 million over the next four years to upgrade Agricultural Research and Innovation Ontario (ARIO) facilities across the province.
At the heart of this investment is the new Ontario Poultry Research Centre at the Elora Research Station, which will receive an additional $10.5 million in funding—bringing the province’s total commitment to $24 million. The state-of-the-art facility will focus on key areas such as animal welfare, reproduction, meat quality, and food safety, directly supporting Ontario’s 1,200 chicken and turkey producers and over 400 egg farmers.
“Our government is taking action to protect Ontario’s agri-food sector,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “By investing in research and innovation, we’re giving farmers and business owners the tools they need to stay competitive and keep Ontario-grown food on family tables.”
The poultry sector isn’t the only one set to benefit. The Ontario Feed Innovation Centre, also located in Elora, will receive $15.5 million to advance nutritional research for swine, poultry, small ruminants, and aquaculture. Additional funding will go toward upgrades at facilities such as the Dairy Education Centre at Ridgetown, ensuring continued access to cutting-edge agricultural research.
ARIO, an agency of the Ontario government, manages a network of 14 research stations spanning 5,600 acres and over 200 buildings dedicated to advancing the province’s agri-food sector. Its work helps turn scientific research into practical, on-farm solutions in areas including livestock, crops, horticulture, aquaculture, and soil health.
These investments align with the province’s Grow Ontario Strategy, reinforcing Ontario’s position as a global leader in agri-food innovation. By focusing on poultry and related sectors, the government aims to drive progress in sustainability, productivity, and food security across the province.
