Surrey, B.C. – Surrey is positioning itself as a leader in agricultural technology through a new partnership with Simon Fraser University. At the Mayor’s Forum on the Future of Agriculture in Surrey, the City and SFU signed a memorandum of understanding to create the SFU Frontier Hub, a new centre for agritech research and technology development.
The initiative will help farmers explore and adopt new technologies and develop more efficient, sustainable, and resilient farming practices. It also supports economic diversification, food security, and long-term industry competitiveness, and provides a space where agritech innovations can be tested, demonstrated, and scaled.
“Surrey is looking to become a leader in agricultural innovation in this region,” Mayor Brenda Locke said. “But leading doesn’t mean leaving traditional farming behind. Our partnership with SFU will give farmers the tools they need to innovate, grow sustainably, and build a stronger local food system to benefit families and the economy alike.”
Under the agreement, the City of Surrey will provide approximately 10 acres of Agricultural Land Reserve land through a long-term, low-cost lease and support the project through zoning, permitting, and regulatory processes. SFU will lead the design and development of the new hub, oversee applied research programs, and secure grant funding and external investment to support the hub’s growth.
“Simon Fraser University is proud to partner with the City of Surrey on the creation of the SFU Frontier Hub for Agritech Research and Methodology (SFU-FARM),” said Dr. Joy Johnson, president of Simon Fraser University. “This new hub will accelerate agritech research, innovation, and commercialization in British Columbia and beyond, with a focus on precision agriculture and smart farming technologies. SFU-FARM reflects our commitment to advancing climate innovation and addressing global environmental challenges through world-leading agritech solutions. These future-ready innovations will strengthen B.C.’s agricultural sector, support Canadian food security, and contribute to a resilient economy.”
“Coming from a farming family, I know how challenging it is to make a living from the land,” said Coun. Harry Bains, chair of Surrey’s Investment, Innovation and Business Committee. “This agreement will support practical research and demonstration projects, giving farmers real-world opportunities to apply agritech solutions and strengthen their operations.”
Surrey’s broader agritech strategy is gaining momentum, laying the groundwork for research, technology development, and collaboration with local farmers and food producers. Through sound strategy and action, the City is demonstrating that it is at the forefront of agritech development and adoption. By leveraging its unique mix of farmland, research, talent, and innovation, Surrey is poised to achieve enduring impact and build a robust, future-ready food system.
To learn more about the city’s agritech opportunities, visit investsurrey.ca/your-opportunities/agritech
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