Made In Canada
A letter from the desk of Sarah Foster, President 20/20 Seed Labs Inc.
The month of July notably belongs to everything Canadian, and two annual general meetings for CSGA and Seeds Canada.
If our sovereignty was shaken this past few months, having both meetings take place in the two beautiful cities – Victoria, British Columbia (truly a jewel known for being friendly with a bounty of beautiful gardens) and Quebec City, Quebec (steeped in rich history with fortified walls and ramparts) one could only think “Oh Canada”.
If this wasn’t enough nostalgia, both meetings boasted excellent agendas.
Every topic timely, energetic, encouraging, reminding us to stand strong, be assertive, and above all there was a healthy call to action to face our challenges head on.
For me, these meetings are an opportunity to connect with our seed growers, business partners, and seed analysts, which has added another important element for us to collaborate on.
We are all so invested in the agricultural sector and in particular seed.
This is a huge opportunity to grow together, and, in both settings, we had the chance to take the time to learn and share our knowledge in helping shape the future of seed certification, testing, and innovation.
Another layer of excitement was added by announcing the opportunity to sponsor the International Seed Testing Association’s annual meeting in Calgary June 2026.
Many of the guest speakers and panels brought valuable insights on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the seed sector.
Mike Downie (Gord Downie’s brother from Tragically Hip), the CSGA keynote speaker, gave an excellent talk on telling your story. Speaking about many of our Canadian musical artists who despite their very difficult childhoods, often wrought with extreme challenges went on to become worldwide icons.
An inspiring and true testament to the idea that you can conquer anything.
We also heard from David Colletto CEO and founder of Abacus Data; he shared his insights on how Donald Trump has influenced the outcome of the recent Federal Government election. He also went on to emphasize that Farmers are the most trusted voices in our country. Citing that Canadians believe farmers care about their farms, the environment and at the core produce 9 out of 10 bites of food starting with the seed they produce.
The conference concluded with an evening gala celebrating and awarding many of our long-standing seed growers, breeders and industry experts, including Art Gorda who has inspected Alberta’s pedigreed seed crops for 50 years.
Art taught many of us to inspect over the years, and we’re proud to be some of his students.
Seeds Canada hosted Diego Risso the keynote speaker. As executive director of the Seed Association of the Americas (SAA), Diego brings a wealth of experience in advancing productivity, sustainability, and global food security. He reminded us that strategic national and international partnerships expand our reach and can impact Canadian agriculture positively.
Diego’s insights resonated strongly with the membership values, particularly sustainability, which was at the heart of the conference’s agenda.
Seeds Canada’s Nick Staford spoke on his topic of sustainability underscoring the Guide to Sustainable Seed, developed in consultation with members across the nation.
This living document reflects best practices focusing on:
- Plant Breeding
- Seed Production
- Seed Conditioning
- Seed Retail
The guide recognizes sustainability in three sectors and a deep dedication to responsible agriculture and resilient growth. Uniting Canada’s seed sector in its mission to serve and steward the land.
- Environmental sustainability—care for the land, water, and air upon which we depend,
- Economic sustainability—securing the prosperity and freedom of Canadian farm families and businesses, and
- Social sustainability—nurturing vibrant communities.
Click here to download the Seeds Canada Guide to Sustainable Seed.
Seeds Canada’s remains committed to continue to celebrate diverse innovations and encourage adaptation for new technologies and face emerging challenges. The sector supports dialogue, learning, and continuous improvement, so future generations can enjoy the same strong and free opportunities.
Through Seeds Canada and the Canadian Seed Growers Association we can initiate and partner through advocacy and collaboration, and by championing the spirit for “the True North strong and free,” theses industries position themselves as leaders in climate resilience and best practices.
With every seed sown and every effort towards sustainability, Seeds Canada and its members fulfill their promise to protect the land for all Canadians. At the Seeds Canada 2025 AGM, their dedication proves that sustainability is more than an ideal—it’s the foundation for a proud, food-secure, and ever-stronger Canada. The overall sentiment and take home was to collaborate and to always strive for continuous improvement, fostering the future of the seed industry.
“O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.”
20/20 Seed Labs Inc. Proudly made in Canada, grown here, and growing with purpose.
We welcome you to contact Sarah Foster directly at sarah@2020seedlabs.ca.
Connect with Sarah Foster on LinkedIn
You may also wish to book a 1-1 Grower Consultation with an expert from our labs.
Learn more about our 20/20 Alive Mobile platform. www.2020seedlabs.ca/alive
Learn more about our testing services for Seed, Soil, Plant Tissue, and Roots.
