Farmers, ranchers, processors supported by new Canada-B.C. partnership

Mar 22, 2023

B.C. farmers and food processors will receive increased food security support over the next 5 years through a new agreement between the governments of Canada and British Columbia.

The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) will provide increased support for an innovative, adaptive and resilient agricultural sector in British Columbia.

Through Sustainable CAP, more than $140 million will be invested in strategic initiatives, which is a 25% increase over the previous funding agreement. Demand-driven, business risk management programs are estimated to provide $330 million in support to farmers over the lifespan of Sustainable CAP.

The Sustainable CAP is expected to assist the B.C. agriculture sector through new and enhanced programs and funding in the following areas:

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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.