Amid growing trade challenges and economic pressures, Alberta farmers are proving their resilience, embracing innovation to drive sustainability and productivity. Early-stage Agrifood tech funding has always been limited, but both new and established financial partners are stepping in to bridge this gap, bringing fresh capital and strategic support to accelerate advancements in AI, robotics and biotechnology. With rising demand for automation and sustainable practices, alongside shifting consumer expectations for more affordable food, this is a pivotal moment for agriculture. By unlocking new investment, Alberta is positioned as a global leader in AgTech innovation, ensuring a stronger, more sustainable future for farmers and the food system.

NYA Ventures has emerged as a new firm in the Alberta VC ecosystem.  This is a mission-driven investment firm dedicated to supporting ag-based founders who are transforming the future of food and agriculture through science, technology and innovation. Founded by three Alberta tech and energy veterans, and led by a team of experienced women investors, NYA has launched its inaugural $51M Food and AgTech Fund in partnership with The51. This fund is committed to backing bold, visionary founders who are tackling food insecurity, driving sustainability and shaping a more resilient food system. By providing critical early-stage capital, NYA Ventures is unlocking the potential of groundbreaking innovations that will define the future of agriculture.

Farming is no longer just “your dad or grandad plowing up a field on a tractor.” Agriculture today is a sophisticated, science-driven industry that leverages advanced research, integrated supply chains and technology to produce safe, nutritious food—along with a wide range of valuable byproducts.

Alison Sunstrum is a founding partner at NYA Ventures. “We invest in visionary entrepreneurs—regardless of identity—who are revolutionizing agriculture. By backing bold, innovative solutions, we are driving a more sustainable and resilient food system—one that supports those who feed the world and secures the future of agriculture for generations to come,” she notes. “We’re a founder-focused firm, providing more than just capital to the companies we invest in. We offer hands-on support, mentorship and strategic guidance—helping founders set performance objectives, acquire customers and scale effectively through their next fundraising rounds.”

“Agriculture is Alberta’s, and Canada’s, biggest economic opportunity,” explains Sunstrum. The evolution of agriculture is happening now. Science and technology are revolutionizing how food is grown, processed and distributed—from new proteins to precision farming, AI-driven analytics and waste-to-value innovations. Every investment we make is rooted in science. Food is one of the world’s largest and most essential industries, yet many of its processes have remained unchanged for decades. AI and automation are now accelerating innovation, optimizing efficiency and unlocking entirely new solutions and investment opportunities.”

She adds, “By backing visionary, science-based founders, this fund is unlocking agriculture’s potential as a powerhouse of economic growth. Just as Alberta has long been a leader in the global energy sector, it now has the opportunity to drive innovation in AgTech—leveraging sustainability, technology and scientific advancements to transform agriculture into a high-growth industry.” 

ATB investing in The51 Food and AgTech Fund is a meaningful achievement. With over 80 years of history supporting key industries—agriculture among them—ATB has long recognized the sector’s importance. Their commitment has evolved alongside the industry, embracing technology and innovation to drive sustainable growth. ATB has always remained a steadfast champion of agriculture, a vision that aligns closely with The51 Food and AgTech Fund’s thesis and its portfolio of forward-thinking companies.

Beyond their deep-rooted support for agriculture, ATB’s investment carried even greater significance—it was the final commitment needed to close the inaugural fund at $51 million. Their backing solidified the launch of this first fund, one NYA hopes will be the foundation for many more to come.

“We are a new fund manager, but our team brings extensive personal track records in investing, agriculture and technology,” shares Sunstrum. “Having an institution like ATB believe in our vision and provide the final investment to close the fund is a major milestone. Alongside our other key partners, their support signals confidence in the future of agrifood tech and the transformative founders we are backing. This is just the beginning.”

NYA Ventures is grateful to its investors, team, The51 community and supporters. Sunstrum concludes, “With $51 million in catalytic capital, this fund will fuel the next generation of AgTech breakthroughs, accelerating the growth of companies that will strengthen Canada’s position as a global leader in food production, economic resilience and food security. Even a single strategic investment can have a ripple effect—creating jobs, driving sustainability and shaping the future of agriculture.”

Learn more at nyaplanet.com.

From the March 2025 edition of Business in Calgary, and Business in Edmonton. Shared with permission.