Seed Innovation in Canada: The Funding Problem No One Can Ignore

Dan Wright explains why current models are falling short — and how new approaches like the Variety Use Agreement could change the game.

Canada’s seed industry is at a crossroads—and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

At the Prairie Grain Development Committee meetings, new Seeds Canada CEO Dan Wright didn’t mince words: without better funding for innovation, Canadian farmers risk falling behind globally.

So what’s the solution?

The Real Problem No One Talks About

Plant breeders are doing the hard work developing higher-yielding, disease-resistant crops, but they’re often only paid once for their innovation.

After that? Farmers can reuse seed, and breeders see little return.

That’s a problem when:

• Disease pressure is increasing
• Crop challenges are getting tougher
• Innovation is more expensive than ever 

A New Approach: The VUA

Enter the Variety Use Agreement (VUA).

It’s simple:

• Farmers can still save seed
• But if they reuse it, they pay a small royalty
• Breeders get paid as long as their product delivers value

Think of it as a pay-for-performance model for seed innovation. 

Why This Matters Right Now

Global companies are watching Canada.

If they can’t capture value here, they may invest elsewhere.

And that means:

• Fewer new varieties
• Slower innovation
• Canadian farmers losing their competitive edge 

The Bottom Line

There’s no silver bullet, but doing nothing isn’t an option.

The future of Canadian agriculture depends on:

• Smarter funding models
• Industry-wide collaboration
• And real conversations—happening right now

 Want the full story?
Hear Dan Wright break it down on the latest Seed World podcast.

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