December 17, 2020
Province Seeks to Modernize Crop Diversification Centre Model
– – –Creating Stronger Alignments Will Protect Future Growth in Agriculture: Pedersen
The Manitoba government is issuing a request for proposal (RFP) to review the current Crop Diversification Centre model, Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Blaine Pedersen announced today, 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,” said Pedersen. “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 and support economic opportunities, and adapt to challenges faced by the sector. The study is anticipated to take approximately six months to complete, the minister 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.
“These centres play an important role in supporting the development of protein initiatives in the province,” said Pedersen. “I am very confident that our diversification centres will provide a strong foundation for research and innovation with the support of the province.”
The RFP will be posted to MERX at www.merx.com under an open tendering process.
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