News Research
Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre model under review

The Manitoba government has issued a request for proposal (RFP) to review the current Crop Diversification Centre model. The announcement was made by Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Blaine Pedersen in December, adding the study will look to a renewed vision, supporting innovation in the agriculture and farming industries.

“Future growth in the agriculture sector comes from innovation,” Pedersen said in an official statement. “Through this process, we have a great opportunity to create a stronger alignment with research organizations and continue supporting sustainable solutions that benefit producers and the industry.”

The review will see options created for the future role and funding model for Diversification Centres beyond March 2023, to build on past successes, support economic opportunities and adapt to challenges faced by the sector. The study is anticipated to take approximately six months to complete, Pedersen noted.

The province’s mandate to provide leadership in accelerating innovation, increase Manitoba’s agri-food exports, and market diversification opportunities are supported by the diversification centres. These centres are non-profit research organizations directed by local producers and business people. They conduct applied research and demonstrations on crops, technology and best management practices.

The centres’ goals are to:

• increase the profitability, sustainability and adaptability of farms;
• accelerate adoption or commercialization of research innovations at the farm level;
• facilitate the adoption of technical innovations or practices from outside the province/country; and
• improve the overall growth of the agriculture, agri-food and agri-product sector.

The RFP will be posted to MERX at www.merx.com under an open tendering process.