New Ag Action Manitoba funding now available

Aug 07, 2018

Farmers, researchers and industry service providers can apply for funding through CAP

By Kate Ayers
Staff Writer
Farms.com

The Ag Action Manitoba program is now offering funding for producers, agri-processors, researchers and industry organizations under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP).

Lawrence MacAulay, the federal ag minister, and Ralph Eichler, Manitoba’s ag minister, made the announcement on Thursday.

“The Government of Canada is proud to invest and support research projects that give our farmers and processors a competitive edge,” MacAulay said in a provincial government release.

“This investment will contribute to a strong, growing agriculture and agri-food sector.”

The Ag Action Manitoba program has two streams of funding:

basic and applied research and development activities
investment related to capacity building

Applicants will conduct research in one of five areas:

grain innovation
livestock production
agri-resource management
processing and value-added
other research and development projects that enhance growth, competitiveness and sustainability of the agriculture and agri-food sectors

“Funding available from Ag Action Manitoba will build on our province’s priorities for the sector,” Eichler said in the release.

In addition, “funding for research and innovation opens the door for new discoveries, innovative approaches and disruptive technologies, ensuring Manitoba remains competitive in Canada’s agriculture sector.”

The program also provides cost-sharing for some research activities.

More information on the Ag Action Manitoba program and how to apply can be found here. Interested applicants can also call 1-844-769-6224 or email agaction@gov.mb.ca.

Charles Knowles photo

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.