Growcer

Growcer, founded in 2016, is a Canada-based manufacturer of modular hydroponic farms, aiming to decentralize the food system and make local food accessible for everyone.

Growcer introduced “The Osiris Farmplex,” a modular vertical farming system that scales with businesses, allowing growers to expand their operations profitably by adding more farm units or storage facilities. Additionally, Growcer has introduced the Osiris Access, a farm designed for accessibility and compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (ACA), ensuring smoother access and operation for individuals using mobility devices. The Osiris Access was developed in collaboration with local community groups and the Rick Hansen Foundation to make local food more accessible to all.

Growcer has also introduced Growcer Academy, an education unit specifically designed to support the learning goals of young career explorers in agriculture, food security, and sustainability. The company has managed to grow fresh produce in –40°C weather, designing the first wheelchair-accessible modular vertical farm in Canada.

Key customers and partnerships

Growcer has partnered with schools, organizations, and non-remote communities that see value in growing food locally such as Churchill Northern Studies Centre, Norway House Cree Nation, Acadia University, Altario School, and New Horizon Co-op.

 In July 2024, The company has collaborated with the Canadian Embassy and the Barbados Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Nutritional Security to initiate an AgriTech initiative in Barbados.

Funding and financials

In April 2024, Growcer secured CAD 3 million (~USD 2.19 million) in a Series A round led by Modern Niagara, Jeff Westeinde, and Farm Boy Co-CEO Jeff York to expand its market presence in the Northeastern US and broaden its product range. The company focuses on providing modular vertical farms; these structures allow customers, ranging from retailers to schools and remote communities, to grow food all year round.