Genome BC and Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF) have partnered to develop the Genomic Innovation for Regenerative Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (GIRAFF) program to co-invest in projects that will provide genomic solutions to support the BC agriculture, food and fisheries sectors in addressing climate change. Genome BC and IAF will each contribute $1M to provide a $2M funding envelope for this program. The $1M IAF contribution to the Genomic Innovation for Regenerative Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Program is funded by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.
The GIRAFF program will focus on these three objectives:
- Develop and deploy novel genomic technologies to optimize productivity and ensure sustainability in a changing climate.
- Leverage innovative genomic solutions to improve the health of crops, livestock*, fisheries and ecosystems impacted by climate change.
- Support genomic innovations to reduce environmental impacts.
Examples of eligible research topics include developing diagnostics tests to improve disease management, novel microbial treatments to improve nutrient use efficiency, alternative feeds to improve fish/animal health or approaches to enhance soil-plant-microbial interactions to maximize carbon sequestration. More examples, plus details about the program, can be found in the program guidelines available on Genome BC’s website.
Key elements:
Interested applicants are encouraged to direct questions to Genome BC at GIRAFF@genomebc.ca. |