Edmonton startups Edging AI, iClassifier, and Nu Terra Labs are among the eight early-stage companies from Alberta selected for the inaugural THRIVE Academy pre-accelerator program.
The THRIVE Academy is a 12-week agrifood pre-accelerator program for agtech startups that offers entrepreneurs tailored guidance, access to the Olds College Smart Farm, and more.
"The first cohort of the THRIVE Academy speaks volumes to the talent and innovation in the agrifood value chain in Alberta and across Canada," said John Cassidy, managing director of SVG Ventures|THRIVE in Canada.
Using artificial intelligence and computer-vision, iClassifier provides smart-farm capabilities to producers. Nu Terra Labs aims to make it easier for small and medium-sized producers to set up automated greenhouses and vertical farms.
Edging AI is working on a smartphone device that will help users detect bacteria with a simple scan. "We are looking forward to getting the training, guidance and coaching we need to grow our start-up to the next level," the company posted as it announced its selection.
Alberta Innovates is supporting the THRIVE Academy as part of its push to bring more accelerators to the province. A total of 15 companies are in the first cohort.
"We are very pleased to see such strong representation by Alberta tech companies in this cohort, along with companies from other parts of Canada and the world, because one of our goals with the accelerator program is to grow connections between innovators in our province and investors and businesses around the globe," said Alberta Innovates CEO Laura Kilcrease.
The program kicked off on Sept. 5 and runs until a demo day in mid-November.
Photo: Vertical farms like the one pictured are the focus for Nu Terra Labs. (Nu Terra Labs/Supplied)