Minister Vandal announces $234,000 through CanNor to enhance local infrastructure and grow the economy

Aug 19, 2022

Whitehorse, Yukon — Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency

Shared public spaces in villages, towns and cities are at the heart of communities across Canada. Main streets, downtown cores, community and cultural centres, farmers' markets, libraries, outdoor spaces and other public places draw in residents and visitors alike, supporting local businesses and jobs. In many communities, these spaces evolved as Canadians took precautions to stay safe from COVID-19.

Today, the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister for PrairiesCan and Minister for CanNor; Dr. Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for Yukon; with the Honourable Jeanie McLean, Minister of Education and Minister responsible for Women's Directorate, announced that the Government of Canada is investing $234,000 to support high-quality sports and recreation opportunities across the territory.

The Government of Canada recognizes that communities thrive when they have infrastructure to promote social interaction and physical activity, and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These are what make our communities stronger, more connected, and are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities.

This funding, delivered by CanNor, supports two one-year projects that improve public infrastructure, bring people back to public spaces safely and create jobs and stimulate local economies. These investments also demonstrate the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting the sustainable, diversified growth of economic sectors across the North.

Volleyball Yukon is receiving $192,000 toward a one-year project to build three competition-grade beach volleyball courts in Whitehorse, with an additional investment of $23,800 from the Government of Yukon. The courts are located near two Whitehorse high schools and are available for use by the general public. CanNor funding will help improve public infrastructure and will enable the organization to host future volleyball competitions, attracting visitors to the city and strengthening the growing competitive sport community. Funding towards this project is delivered through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF).

Sport Yukon is receiving $42,000 toward a one-year project to redevelop the Klondike Road Relay (KRR), which is scheduled for September 2022, with an additional investment of $14,400 from the Government of Yukon. CanNor funding will support the organization in creating a digital registration platform and an outdoor gathering space. As a popular annual event, the KRR attracts participants from across the Yukon and beyond, making it an important driver for the economy. The event is also widely recognized for its role in maintaining a sense of unity among participants, partners and communities both along the route and beyond. Funding towards this project is delivered through Inclusive Diversification and Economic Advancement in the North (IDEANorth).

Source : Canada.Ca

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.