Launching the CAPE Infrastructure Directory
January marks a special milestone for us, it's the one year anniversary of our Cellular Agriculture Prairies Ecosystem (CAPE) project! We’re really excited to celebrate this occasion by launching something that we've been working hard on: the Infrastructure Directory!
Over the past six months, my colleague Lulu has conducted an infrastructure survey and interviews, guided by an interprovincial working group led by our CAPE Program Manager, Miranda Stahn, that helped refine the gap analysis process. With 47 responses, we identified existing assets mostly within the Prairie region, but we've also included some cool highlights from across Canada. The result is an open resource designed to foster collaboration and strengthen Canada’s bioeconomy. Click below to check it out!
In addition, the survey data offers a glimpse into our regional bioprocessing capabilities. It highlights areas where we can grow and improve the food biomanufacturing and cellular agriculture ecosystem. Here are some key takeaways:
Our data captured an ecosystem that is strong in research and discovery infrastructure, but we're missing some crucial mid-TRL and large-scale assets.
We identified more upstream processing but insufficient downstream capacity, indicating an opportunity to enhance current infrastructure by developing continuous, integrated biomanufacturing hubs.
There’s a need for more commercial GMP-grade bioprocess facilities.
To address some of the gaps, we could explore and/or invest in shared-access facilities, or even retrofit existing facilities.
Right now, our infrastructure assets are fragmented and siloed. This points to the importance of supply chain integration and the development of a cohesive food biomanufacturing backbone.
So, why is this all important?
We are living in extraordinary times, and the Federal Government has made it clear that we must prioritize the development of strong domestic food production and supply chains. This is essential not only for addressing food insecurity but also for strengthening our local producers and boosting the economy.
Canada can be a leader in emerging food technologies, such as cellular agriculture and food biomanufacturing, but it urgently needs to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities. It is crucial that we understand our current strengths while identifying any shortcomings. By gaining a clear understanding of what we have and what’s lacking, we can optimize our resources and funding.
The Infrastructure Directory represents a significant step forward. By mapping Canada’s existing resources and identifying targeted areas for improvement, we can work together to harness our collective capabilities and significantly strengthen our food supply chain.
🙌 A huge shoutout to the CAPE Working Group for supporting us over the past six months in putting together this Directory and gap analysis. We believe this resource can truly benefit the whole ecosystem.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the Directory and our findings! If you’re interested in collaborating or have any ideas to make it even better, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
