Canada is recognized worldwide as a leading producer, processor and exporter of high-quality seed for a wide range of crops, providing for over 60,000 jobs. Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of up to $750,000 for SeedChange to achieve an enhanced Canadian seed system that is equipped to support the development and long-term competitiveness of farmer-bred grain and vegetable varieties for organic and climate-resilient farming.
The project aims to implement demonstration sites across the country to evaluate and showcase farmer-bred and/or Canadian-grown varieties that thrive in organic and climate-resilient farming conditions. It will create a range of knowledge-transfer tools and learning opportunities for farmers, seed companies and researchers in their region. It is expected that the project will increase commercial adoption and use of Canadian-grown seed, enhance the practice of farmer-led plant breeding methodologies and increase market trade opportunities in the value chain.
This funding, under the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program, will help to support Canadian seed by diversifying it's varieties to consumers and provide new opportunities to farmers. By reaching new consumers and markets, the agricultural economy will continue to grow, keeping the sector positioned for long-term competitiveness. International seed trade includes: germplasm exchange, global research and development programs, contract production for export, and marketing new varieties imported into Canada.
The Government of Canada will continue to support innovative projects that develop and implement the best practices for farmers, as it helps economic growth and supports a strong and competitive agricultural sector.
