Saskatoon has long been at the centre of Canadian agricultural innovation — and this July, it becomes the gathering place for the conversations shaping the future of the seed sector. Home to world-class research institutions, cutting-edge ag innovation and a community deeply rooted in agriculture, Saskatoon is the ideal host city for the 2026 Seeds Canada Annual Conference.
From July 6-8, industry leaders, researchers, policymakers and innovators from across the country will come together to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing Canadian agriculture today. Whether it’s advancing genetic innovation, navigating evolving policy landscapes or preparing the workforce needed to power the next generation of agri-food innovation, this year’s conference promises timely discussions and practical insights that attendees can take back to their businesses and organizations.
One of the newest additions to the program is already generating excitement.
Just confirmed: Jen Wright, executive director of the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC), will join attendees during breakfast on July 8 for a featured conversation titled Technology is Easy. People are Hard: The Workforce Behind Agri-Food Innovation.
As agriculture continues to rapidly adopt new technologies, the conversation around labour and skills has never been more important. Wright will explore the critical role people play in driving innovation and productivity across the agri-food sector, including the realities of technology adoption, digital and technical skill gaps, and the growing need for training and upskilling throughout the industry. It’s a must-attend discussion for anyone thinking about the future competitiveness of Canadian agriculture.
And that’s just the beginning.
5 Sessions You Do NOT Want to Miss
Exploring a Next-Generation Variety Development System
Delivering new and improved varieties to farmers is fundamental to the future success of Canadian agriculture and supporting food security and sustainability. At a pivotal moment for variety development in Canada, this panel will bring together key stakeholders to discuss how the industry can secure the future of Canadian genetic innovation and ensure long-term competitiveness for growers.
How Plant Breeding is Powering Biofuels
As biofuels policy continues to evolve, so too does its impact on agriculture and the canola value chain. This session will feature expert perspectives examining the economic case for strong, stable biofuels policy, what’s at stake for farmers, and why policy decisions across the entire value chain matter to Canadian growers.
The Future of Seed Treatment
Seed treatment policy is rapidly evolving across North America. This cross-border panel featuring experts from Canada and the United States will explore emerging trends, policy direction and the importance of maintaining alignment across jurisdictions. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the risks, opportunities and collaborative actions needed to help prevent policy fragmentation within the sector.
Transforming Pulse Breeding Through Collaboration
Canada’s pulse sector is entering a new era powered by collaboration and innovation. This session will spotlight a multi-partner initiative accelerating pulse breeding through genomic selection, with a focus on developing high-protein varieties that can meet growing global demand and strengthen Canada’s leadership in plant protein.
Partnerships Powering Progress in Pulses
How can the seed industry make it easier to introduce new genetics into commercial seed systems? With rising costs and increasing market pressures, this timely discussion will examine Canada’s regulatory frameworks and explore opportunities to create a more “fit-for-purpose” system. Industry leaders will share perspectives on the changes they believe are needed to unlock the full potential of seed innovation.
Be Part of the Conversations Shaping Agriculture
The 2026 Seeds Canada Annual Conference is more than just a meeting — it’s where the future of Canadian agriculture takes shape. With a program packed full of timely policy discussions, market insights, innovation showcases and networking opportunities, this year’s conference offers attendees the chance to connect, collaborate and help shape the direction of the seed sector.
If you care about the future of innovation, sustainability and competitiveness in Canadian agriculture, Saskatoon is the place to be this July. Early bird registration for the conference has been extended to May 29, visit the conference website for more info.
