Edmonton, Alberta ©Ben JohnsonWhy Agribusiness? Why Now?
Agribusiness is one of Canada’s most significant economic drivers, contributing more than $112 billion to the national GDP annually. Canada is the world’s top exporter of flaxseed, canola, pulses, oats and durum wheat, but its influence extends beyond commodities. The country leads advancements in plant-based proteins, precision agriculture and food processing innovation. Sub-sectors such as functional foods and agricultural technology also position Canada as a global agribusiness leader.
“Canada feeds the world today and into the future,” noted Executive Director of Business Events at Destination Canada, Virginie De Visscher. “With its abundant natural resources, the world’s largest freshwater supply and cutting-edge research, Canada offers a dynamic agribusiness ecosystem unlike anywhere else. It’s not just about food production—it’s about driving innovation and sustainability in a sector that will define the future.”
Canada also boasts an unmatched research and development infrastructure, hosting international gatherings such as the International Wheat Congress and Canada’s Farm Show. The ability to create innovation, set global standards and facilitate trade demonstrates why agribusiness was the natural focus of Innovate Canada 2024.
Why Edmonton?
“Edmonton was chosen because of its strong agribusiness sector and Explore Edmonton’s leadership in sustainable events,” said Peter Cottan, Director of Business Events at Explore Edmonton. “The event also coincided with Farmfair International, one of Canada’s premier agriculture and livestock shows, adding significant value for participants.”
Edmonton’s agribusiness ecosystem reflects the city’s commitment to innovation and collaboration. Attendees toured Innotech Alberta, where they observed AI-powered tools for plant disease resistance, optical sensors to score fruit quality, and large-scale industrial hemp fibre processing that meets global specifications. The facility also showcased cold-tolerant crop varieties being developed in climate-controlled grow chambers, providing practical solutions for changing climates.
At the Food Processing Development Centre in nearby Leduc, participants explored a 65,000-square-foot facility renowned for supporting food entrepreneurs. The centre’s pilot equipment helps startups refine their products and scale for export. For Innovate Canada participants, the highlight was seeing the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)-certified processes in action and engaging in blind taste tests of products destined for international markets.
“Edmonton gave us the opportunity to immerse C-suite executives in a centre of excellence for agribusiness. We showcased innovation across primary agriculture, food processing and sustainable agriculture, while highlighting Edmonton’s economic leadership,” Cottan added.
There’s no doubt these executives left inspired by what they experienced. “These visits provided invaluable insights into the innovative work happening in Edmonton and across Canada,” said Ravi Prasad, Executive Director of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) – Organics International, based in Germany. “It’s inspiring to see how Canada is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in organic and sustainable farming.”
Exploring Canada’s Regional Contributions
While Edmonton was the focal point, Innovate Canada highlighted the breadth of agribusiness innovation across the country. Representatives from cities including Calgary, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Niagara Falls, Québec City, Charlottetown, and Kelowna participated in one-on-one meetings, providing attendees with tailored insights into regional strengths. These interactions demonstrated the diversity of Canada’s agribusiness landscape, from precision agriculture in Saskatchewan to food innovation hubs in Ontario.
Another invited guest, Kathryn White, Executive Director of the International Food and Agribusiness Management Association (IFAMA), with members in more than 80 countries, noted the event’s value in showcasing Canada’s regional assets: “This event has been fantastic for meeting stakeholders and understanding the innovation and sustainability initiatives across Canada’s provinces. It’s opened up exciting possibilities for hosting one of our future congresses here.”
The Sustainability Imperative
Sustainability was at the core of Innovate Canada 2024, aligning with Destination Canada’s commitment to hosting carbon neutral events. Explore Edmonton ensured that local suppliers, venues and resources reflected sustainable practices. Walkable venues eliminated the need for transportation and materials were entirely digital. Handmade beaded lanyards crafted by a local Indigenous artist were gifted to participants as reusable keepsakes, further reinforcing the event’s commitment to sustainability. Additionally, local food producers were prioritised, highlighting Canada’s agricultural diversity, and TRACE software was employed to measure the event’s carbon footprint, enabling remaining emissions to then be offset accurately through investment in verified carbon offset projects.
“Canada’s leadership in sustainable business events is about more than reducing emissions,” explained De Visscher. “It’s about creating a blueprint for hosting events that contribute meaningfully to communities and the environment. Innovate Canada demonstrates how sustainability can be integrated into every aspect of an event.”
The programme also celebrated Indigenous culture, featuring performances by Indigenous artists and integrating Indigenous knowledge into discussions on sustainable agriculture. Kathryn White remarked: “The investment Canadians are making in recognising and integrating Indigenous knowledge into their systems is truly refreshing. It’s an important piece that aligns deeply with global sustainability goals.”
A Lasting Legacy
Innovate Canada 2024 showcased the depth of Canada’s agribusiness sector and its commitment to sustainability. “This was more than just a business event—it was a platform for innovation and collaboration,” De Visscher reflected. “Canada’s expertise in agribusiness, combined with its commitment to sustainability, sets the stage for impactful partnerships that will shape the future of food and agriculture.”
Innovate Canada 2024 left participants inspired and equipped to drive meaningful change in their own organisations, reaffirming that Canada is a global partner in boosting progress. “Canada has the infrastructure, expertise and people to host world-class events,” Prasad added. “The experience at Innovate Canada has shown me how Canada stands out as a global leader in agribusiness, and I look forward to future collaborations here.”
For more information on Canada’s agribusiness developments, head to Destination Canada’s website.