A $700,000 donation from the RBC Foundation will support Assiniboine College in expanding its greenhouse facilities and further advance its Greenhouse in a Box research project. This donation is a contribution towards the Prairie Innovation Centre initiative which allows the college to develop infrastructure, launch new programs to support advancements and growth in the agriculture industry.
“Donations that support infrastructure, research, and education allow Assiniboine to further expand our efforts to develop solutions in agricultural sustainability and food security—both critical to the future of our industry,” said Chris Budiwski, Acting Dean and Chair of the Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment at Assiniboine. “We appreciate the RBC Foundation’s support towards this environmental sustainability project. This collaboration is important to the Edwards School, which aims to provide students with real-world experience through industry-driven applied research projects and support them to graduate with the skills needed to support a low-emissions economy.”
As part of the college’s Applied Research Strategy, the Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment is consistently working to respond to sector challenges and industry needs. The Edwards School’s Greenhouse in a Box prototype is a free-standing, transportable structure. It’s a type of greenhouse that allows fruit and vegetable production to adapt to almost any location or climate, extending the crop growth season.
“We are proud to be recognized as a leading applied research institution in Manitoba,” added Edwards School Chair, Karen O’Gilvie. “This funding will help us to acquire the necessary equipment and build the spaces for our faculty and students to expand their work in addressing industry demands and tackling challenges at both local and global levels.”
“With RBC’s ambition to support the transition to a net zero economy, we know that the pursuit of sustainable agriculture is collaborative, and we’re pleased to support Assiniboine College in this space,” said Tracey Schofield, RBC Regional Vice President. “We’re delighted to announce a $700,000 donation from RBC Foundation to support Assiniboine College’s Greenhouse in a Box initiative and increased training opportunities for horticultural students.”
The greenhouse is located at the North Hill campus. The expansion will join the grow plots, orchard and the weed identification garden to provide interdisciplinary training, practical education and applied research.
