The federal government last week announced loans totalling $2.5 million to three Halifax companies – Liveable Cities, Oberland Agriscience and Kindred AI – to help them adopt artificial intelligence.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency is providing the funds through its Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program and the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative.  

Liveable Cities, a division of LED Roadway Lighting, is receiving $2 million over two years to develop an AI-powered streetlight controller and camera. The system will aim to reduce energy use by up to 30 percent and provide real-time data to improve public safety, said the ACOA statement. LED Roadway makes LED highway lights and Liveable Cities’ key innovation is selling internet-of-things-enabled add-ons that can be installed in most streetlights to improve efficiency.

“At Liveable Cities . . . we’re committed to creating smart, sustainable technologies that help communities become safer, more efficient, and more livable—and this support from ACOA plays a critical role in making that vision a reality,” said LED Roadway Co-CEO Ken Cartmill in the statement.

Oberland Agriscience will receive $250,000 to install AI-driven software and equipment that will boost production, improve efficiency, and reduce waste. ACOA said the technology would enhance product quality, support new product development, and optimize formulations.

Oberland’s technology uses AI, robotics, and predictive analytics to convert black soldier fly larvae into premium products for animal nutrition, agriculture, and soil health.

Kindred AI  is receiving a $206,250 loan and $50,000 grant to advance its real-time emotional intelligence software. The economic development agency hopes the funding will support product development, engineering, and commercialization. The company’s tools help users track and grow emotional intelligence and can be embedded into other products.