Feds, province invest $485M in agricultural sector

Mar 21, 2023

Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector is getting additional support from the federal and provincial governments.

On Monday, the governments announced $485 million for what is called “strategic agricultural initiatives” in the province under a new five-year Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP).

“Through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, we are investing in the economic, social and environmental sustainability of the agriculture sector, while ensuring the resilience of supply chains,” Gudie Hutchings, the federal minister of rural economic development, said in a media release.

“These programs and initiatives will create new ways for producers in Saskatchewan and processors to continue to improve their competitiveness while protecting our environment.”

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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.