John Deere Foundation announces $19 million in grants aimed at eliminating global hunger

Oct 27, 2023

MOLINE, Ill., The John Deere Foundation announced a series of grants totaling $19 million aimed at eliminating hunger by increasing access to food, uplifting resource-constrained farmers, and supporting global food systems. Awarded to World Food Program USA, One Acre Fund, and The Nature Conservancy, these are the three largest grants in the foundation's history and strengthen John Deere's commitment to creating a world in which food is a moral right for all.

These grants were announced today by Josh Jepsen, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of John Deere, at the World Food Prize Foundation's Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa.

"We believe firmly that the world's farmers deserve our collective support and advocacy if our goal is to realize the full promise of the 'Green Revolution,'" Jepsen said during his remarks. "The private sector, including specifically those businesses involved in agriculture, have the responsibility to help close the gaps in investment. Guided by concepts such as 'trust-based philanthropy,' we can do better, particularly in honoring the work of nonprofit organizations serving marginalized growers capable of making leaps of their own."

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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.