Case Studies
Agrotek
Indigenous-led Innovation for Sustainable Agriculture
Agrotek Industries, a 100% Indigenous-owned fertilizer and biostimulant manufacturing company, specializes in sustainable soil amendments that enhance crop growth and resilience. Their innovative products, developed with support from BCCAI, align with regenerative and organic agricultural practices.
Business Problem
The overuse of synthetic fertilizers poses significant threats to soil health and sustainability, disproportionately impacting First Nation lands in Canada. This challenge compromises traditional agricultural practices and long-term food security, calling for innovative, ecofriendly solutions.
BCCAI Service Offering
Through a $186,000 investment, BCCAI supported Agrotek in developing and validating organic soil amendments derived from leonardite. Services included:
- Access to SFU鈥檚 greenhouses for product testing and validation.
- Guidance in achieving certifications under the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), Canadian Organic Standards (COS) and USDA National Organic Program (NOP).
- Networking opportunities to showcase innovations at international events like Greentech 2023 in the Netherlands.
Insight
This partnership reinforced the role of Indigenous knowledge in advancing sustainable agriculture. Agrotek鈥檚 products effectively improved crop yields, soil health and carbon sequestration, bridging modern innovation with traditional practices.
Project Outcome & Impact
3
new products and services brought
to market within two years
Innovation
Developed leonardite-derived liquid humic acid, enhancing soil health and crop resilience.
Broader Impact
Promoted regenerative agriculture and sustainable practices, particularly for Indigenous farmers.
Validation
Achieved organic certification for multiple products.
鈥淲ith BCCAI鈥檚 support, we鈥檝e integrated Indigenous knowledge and modern innovation to develop sustainable solutions that not only improve soil health but also uphold the integrity of our traditional practices. This partnership has transformed the way we approach agriculture.鈥�
- Jonathan Mathias, Owner, Agrotek Industries
