Some of the sector’s biggest names are gathering in Quebec City, and the message is clear: the future of farming starts now.
The grandeur of Quebec City offered more than just cobblestone charm this week — it played host to the Seeds Canada annual conference, where optimism about Canada’s agricultural future took centre stage. The president’s reception kicked things off with the usual handshakes and hors d’oeuvres, but also with something far more important: a deep sense of unity and purpose.
Standing before a room of growers, researchers, executives, and regulators, BASF’s Brent Collins — Seeds Canada president — welcomed attendees with a nod to tradition and a call to progress. “We’re gathered here on the traditional, unceded territory of the Huron-Wendat people,” he began, reminding everyone that reconciliation is not just a statement — it’s a shared responsibility. “At Seeds Canada, we believe in Canadian unity, in working across regions and cultures to support our shared future.”
In that spirit, the reception wasn’t merely ceremonial — it was a celebration of people who make the seed sector tick. Attendees were encouraged to share their own perspectives using #SeedsCanada2025, an invitation that turned the event into a real-time snapshot of a modern agricultural community connecting across distances.
The executive board was recognized, with members representing companies like Syngenta, Corteva, C&M Seeds, Nixed and 20/20 Seed Labs. Several board members were grounded — literally — by travel delays, but the applause for them was no less enthusiastic. Collins also paid special tribute to outgoing directors Chantelle Chantal Lecavalier and Eric McLean, who were honoured for their years of service with a heartfelt toast and a small commemorative gift.
Quebec’s plant industry also had its moment in the spotlight. Anouschka Bouchard, CEO of Réseau Végétal Québec, brought warm greetings and a strong message of collaboration. Her remarks underscored Quebec’s unique contribution to Canadian agriculture: “The theme of this year’s conference — growing success driven by passion — truly reflects the spirit of our sector,” she said. “We have full confidence in the future: in our crops, our farm families, and our shared capacity to grow better, with pride and responsibility.”
With many sectors in flux, the stability and strategic coordination of Canada’s seed industry stood out. That coordination was on full display in the form of a robust list of sponsors supporting the event, from gold-level contributors like BASF, Bayer, Corteva, and Syngenta to bronze sponsors like Farm Credit Canada, Richardson International, and provincial seed processors.
