Farm Technology Program Alberta: Eligible Equipment and Project Costs

By GrantHub Research Team · · Lire en français

Farm Technology Program Alberta: Eligible Equipment and Project Costs

If you want to add new technology to your Alberta farm, the Farm Technology Program Alberta can help cover many of your costs. This program supports primary producers who want to use equipment and systems that make farms more efficient, reduce waste, and improve farm security. Knowing what equipment and project costs are eligible can help you save time and prepare a stronger application.

The Farm Technology Program is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. It is delivered by the Government of Alberta.


How the Farm Technology Program Works

The Farm Technology Program offers up to $50,000 per project. It covers a maximum of 50% of eligible project costs. Your farm must pay the rest.

Who Can Apply

To qualify, you must:

  • Be a primary producer in Alberta.
  • Have a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) or finish one before your project ends.
  • Use innovative farm technology that improves efficiency, reduces waste, or boosts security.

Eligible Equipment

Eligible equipment must help you adopt new technology on your farm. The program does not give a fixed list, but it focuses on tools that improve your farm’s work.

Common eligible equipment includes:

  • Precision agriculture technology

    • GPS-guided equipment
    • Variable rate application systems
    • Field mapping and data collection tools
  • Automation and efficiency equipment

    • Automated feeding or watering systems
    • Monitoring systems for livestock or crops
    • Robotics or sensor-based equipment
  • Waste reduction and environmental technology

    • Equipment that reduces input waste
    • Technology that improves nutrient or water use
  • Farm security technology

    • Surveillance and monitoring systems
    • Access control or tracking technology

All equipment must be new, not used or refurbished, and directly linked to your approved project.


Eligible Project Costs

The Farm Technology Program Alberta lets you claim more than just equipment costs.

Eligible project costs include:

  • Purchase price of approved equipment
  • Installation and setup costs
  • Software needed to run the technology
  • Professional or technical services for putting the technology in place
  • Training costs related to using the new equipment

Only costs made after your application is approved are eligible. You cannot claim expenses from before approval.

If you want to compare Alberta agriculture grants, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and farm activity.


Costs That Are Not Eligible

Some costs are not covered by this program. These include:

  • Used or refurbished equipment
  • General repairs or maintenance
  • Ongoing operating costs not related to technology adoption
  • Regular labour costs for daily farm work
  • Expenses from before your approval date

Check the program guidelines to confirm what is not covered before you apply.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Buying equipment before approval.
    If you buy equipment before your application is approved, you cannot claim those costs.

  2. Applying without an Environmental Farm Plan.
    You need a current EFP or a plan to finish one before your project ends.

  3. Giving unclear project details.
    Your application should clearly explain how the technology will help your farm.

  4. Assuming all technology is eligible.
    The equipment must be new, innovative, and support the program’s goals—not just replace old tools.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much funding can I get from the Farm Technology Program Alberta?
You can get up to $50,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs. Your farm must pay the rest.

Q: Do I need an Environmental Farm Plan to apply?
Yes. You need a current EFP or must finish one before your project ends.

Q: What kinds of farm technology are eligible?
Eligible technology improves efficiency, reduces waste, or makes the farm more secure. The focus is on new and innovative solutions.

Q: Can I use this program with other grants?
You may be able to stack funding, but you cannot claim the same costs twice. Each program must pay for different expenses.

Q: Is the funding taxable?
Grant funding is usually taxable income. Ask your accountant how this applies to your farm.

GrantHub tracks hundreds of grant programs across Canada. You can use it to see which ones match your farm and technology plans.


  • What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans
  • How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules
  • Loans vs Grants for Women in Agriculture: Key Differences Explained

Next Steps

If you are planning a technology upgrade, start by making a list of the equipment and services your farm needs. Check if they fit the Farm Technology Program Alberta guidelines. Looking at other Alberta agriculture programs can also help you fill any funding gaps. GrantHub can help you see which programs match your farm, your technology goals, and your project timeline.

Was this article helpful?

Rate it so we can improve our content.

Canada Proactive Disclosure Data

400,000+ Companies Like Yours Have Received Billions in Grants

The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.