Protein Industries Canada has recently announced a $500,000 commitment in a project to establish a national plan to increase Indigenous diversity and inclusion in Canada's agricultural and agrifood sector.
The project, managed by Indigenous Works, is part of the organization's Luminary Initiative, a six-year program aimed at advancing Indigenous-driven research and innovation that will alter economies, create jobs, and improve Indigenous people's well-being in Canada. The Luminary Initiative brings together a group of over 140 organisations of Indigenous research and business communities to debate and co-create Indigenous innovation strategies for a number of industries.
Indigenous Works has partnered with the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina, and the Luminary consortium, to provide research assistance and strategic advice throughout the project.
As a pioneer in innovative and sustainable agronomic methods, Nutrien has committed as a presenting sponsor as well as giving in-kind assistance.
Farm Credit Canada will join other firms in the industry that want to contribute to the discussion in supporting the effort. Protein Industries Canada will pay half of the $500,000 initiative and the rest will be contributed by Nutrien, along with other public funding programs.