The partnership leverages technology, sustainability, and humanitarian aid to strengthen food security in Central Alberta

Toronto, ON - March 4, 2025 - The Red Deer Food Bank is now growing fresh cherry tomatoes year-round thanks to a new indoor hydroponic farm built and designed by NuLeaf Farms using technology from Just Vertical. Fully operational as of December 2024, the 500 sq. ft. farm provides a sustainable, local source of fresh produce for the Red Deer Food Bank and their community.

This initiative demonstrates how innovative technology and collaboration can support sustainable food production at food banks. NuLeaf Farms led the project, integrating its IoT-driven climate and automation technology with Just Vertical's hydroponic vertical growing systems, while GlobalMedic provided critical logistical support and targeted donations to support the Red Deer Food Bank. The result is a scalable, cost-efficient model that could be replicated by food banks across the country to provide clients with fresh, nutritious produce all year.

Quotes
"This farm is proof that when organizations with unique expertise come together, we can create real, lasting solutions to food insecurity," said Ryan Wright, President of NuLeaf Farms. "By integrating our IoT automation systems with Just Vertical's vertical growing technology and working alongside GlobalMedic's humanitarian efforts, we've created a farm that's efficient, sustainable, and impactful. This kind of collaboration is the future of food security.
"Innovation happens when people tackle problems together," said Conner Tidd, Co-Founder and CEO of Just Vertical. "This project is a perfect example of how technology and partnerships can make a real difference. Our vertical growing technology, combined with NuLeaf's expertise in climate automation and GlobalMedic's support, has enabled the Red Deer Food Bank to take control of fresh food production, reduce reliance on donations, and provide high-quality produce year-round."

"This farm is a major step forward for our food bank," said Mitch Thomson, Executive Director of the Red Deer Food Bank. "Tomatoes are one of the hardest fresh items to secure, and now, thanks to this partnership, we no longer have to depend on inconsistent donations or seasonal availability. We can grow our own supply right here in Red Deer—ensuring families facing food insecurity have access to nutritious, locally grown produce."

"At GlobalMedic, we believe that strategic partnerships create lasting impact," said Rahul Singh, Executive Director of GlobalMedic. "This farm is more than just an innovative project—it's a scalable model that proves what's possible when humanitarian organizations, technology providers, and sustainability leaders work together to tackle food insecurity."

How the Partnership Supports Local Food Production
• A Sustainable Farming Solution for Food Banks - This indoor hydroponic farm allows the Red Deer Food Bank to grow its own produce year-round, reducing reliance on inconsistent donations and seasonal supply.
• High-Yield, Efficient Growing - The 500 sq. ft. facility produces 80,000 cherry tomatoes annually, ensuring a fresh supply of produce regardless of the season.
• A Model for Other Food Banks - This farm demonstrates how indoor hydroponic farming can be integrated into food bank operations, creating a scalable model for other organizations seeking long-term, sustainable food production solutions
• The farm is fully operational as of December 2024, marking a significant step toward sustainable, community-driven food solutions.
• Advanced Growing Technology:
• Red Deer Food Bank - Farm operator and beneficiary
• NuLeaf Farms - IoT provider and project manager
• Just Vertical - Provider of indoor growing technology
• GlobalMedic - Partner in enhancing food security through community-driven solutions.

About the Red Deer Food Bank
The Red Deer Food Bank is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting food insecurity in Central Alberta. Since 1984, it has provided vital food assistance through programs like the Emergency Hamper Program, Agency Food Share, Central Alberta Redistribution Program, and Kibble Kitchen for pet food. Serving a region of 22,000 square kilometers, it supports individuals, families, and partner organizations, assisting over 27,000 people annually, with 40% being children. The food bank operates solely on donor support, with a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Through innovative initiatives like greenhouses and hydroponic farming, it works to provide fresh, sustainable food solutions.
For more information or to donate, visit www.reddeerfoodbank.com.

About NuLeaf Farms
NuLeaf Farms is a family-owned business on a mission to build a sustainable and secure food future. Combining plant science with technology, we deliver farming solutions that enable year-round growing in almost any location while using a fraction of the natural resources of traditional agriculture.
From our 10,000-square-foot facility in Calgary, Alberta, we're working to grow the next generation of farmers. We provide equipment, supplies, and support to cultivate safe, reliable food in our homes and communities.
Learn more at https://nuleaffarms.ca/our-story/

About GlobalMedic
Founded in 2002, GlobalMedic (The David McAntony Gibson Foundation) is a Canadian charity committed to providing rapid and effective humanitarian aid to communities affected by poverty, disaster, and conflict. Driven by a team of professional humanitarians and dedicated volunteers, GlobalMedic ensures that critical aid reaches those who need it most—efficiently and effectively. Through innovative programs like the award-winning RescUAV initiative, the organization continuously improves aid delivery while maximizing impact and cost efficiency.
To learn more or support GlobalMedic's mission, visit www.globalmedic.ca.

About Just Vertical
As the demand for sustainable food production continues to rise, Just Vertical is providing scalable solutions through its cutting-edge indoor vertical hydroponic farming systems. Designed for both commercial and consumer markets, the company's systems are changing how businesses, institutions, and consumers grow fresh produce in any space.
Just Vertical's systems empower organizations to meet sustainability goals by producing fresh, local, and pesticide-free food all year round, using 95% less water and significantly less land than traditional agriculture.
Learn more at https://commercial.justvertical.com/