Applications are being accepted for the Advance Payment Program

Feb 14, 2023

Farmers in Western Canada can now apply for the 2023 Advance Payments Program (APP) through Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA).

The program, commonly known as the cash advance, is used by many farmers to cover the working capital requirements of putting in the new crop.

CCGA Director of Finance and Operations Dave Gallant said a $250,000 interest-free limit is in effect for this year.

“With rising interest rates, the savings a farmer can realize from using the advance program are more significant than ever, taking into consideration the interest-free component and the interest-bearing rate,” Gallant said.

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Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.