The Province of Manitoba has significantly bolstered its commitment to the Global Agriculture Technology Exchange (Gate) project, injecting an additional $10.5 million into the initiative. This brings the province’s total investment to $23.5 million, a clear indication of Manitoba’s strategic vision to become a global powerhouse in agricultural innovation.
The Gate project, spearheaded by Cereals Canada, is a $102-million venture aimed at establishing a state-of-the-art facility in downtown Winnipeg. This hub will focus on research, training, and international collaboration, ensuring the long-term competitiveness of Canada’s cereals industry.
Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn described the initiative as a transformative force for global food systems. He likened GATE to ‘a commercial kitchen’ that takes raw products and creates finished products tailored to specific client needs. Kostyshyn emphasized the global significance of Canadian wheat, stating, “As we all know, Canada has the best wheat grown in the world. You could take that high-quality wheat that we grow in Western Canada and incorporate it with a blend of wheat from another part of the world to enhance the finished product.” He added that expanding Manitoba’s presence in global markets will help protect farmers from trade instability.
Cereals Canada CEO Dean Dias expressed gratitude for the province’s continued support. “I would like to thank the Province for its continued support of Gate, and Premier Wab Kinew for championing this project over the last nine months,” Dias said. He noted that the announcement brings the project closer to breaking ground at a critical time for Canadian agriculture.
The Gate Capital Campaign, chaired by former Manitoba Senator JoAnne Buth, has raised $39.15 million toward its $100 million goal. The facility will be built at Lombard and Westbrook, on land provided in-kind by James Richardson & Sons, Limited. Buth commented, “On behalf of the cabinet, I would like to thank Premier Kinew for recognizing Gate as a priority project that positions Manitoba as a nucleus for grains innovation and benefits the whole of Canadian ag. We look forward to seeing other governments join Manitoba and make their own investments in Gate.”
The campaign continues to seek contributions from industry groups, agribusinesses, individuals, and all levels of government. For more information, visit the Gate Capital Campaign website.
This enhanced investment underscores Manitoba’s dedication to advancing agricultural technology and securing its position in the global market. The Gate project is poised to become a cornerstone of innovation, driving forward the cereals industry and benefiting farmers and consumers alike.