Welcome to Associate Showcase, where we highlight the incredible work of our diverse network of ProteinMB Associates. Each month, we will spotlight an organization or individual making waves in the sustainable protein ecosystem. From innovative practices to industry leadership, these showcases are a chance to celebrate and learn from the contributions of those driving positive change and shaping the future of sustainable food production. 

This month's Associate Showcase is Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association!

At the heart of Manitoba’s agricultural landscape, the Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association (MFGA) is dedicated to fostering vibrant grasslands and prosperous forage crops. As industry leaders, MFGA champions the economic and environmental benefits of forages, grasslands, cover crops, and healthy soils, ensuring long-term sustainability for producers and communities alike.

With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, MFGA recognizes the critical role of grasslands in supporting biodiversity, air and water quality, and climate resilience. Their work in protecting these landscapes helps mitigate flood and drought impacts while promoting innovative solutions to sustain grasslands for both livestock and society.

Beyond conservation, MFGA is a proud advocate for Manitoba’s forage and grassland industry. Known for world-class hay production, the association supports exporters at the World Dairy Expo and has recently partnered with Manitoba Organic Alliance to launch the Manitoba Grazing Exchange—a groundbreaking platform connecting livestock farmers with landowners for sustainable grazing opportunities.

MFGA and ProteinMB work together in the strategic areas of Soil, Ecosystems & Biodiversity, Working Together, and Sustainable Protein: the Industry,

For more information, visit MFGA

Manitoba’s Sustainable Protein Advantage strategy is comprised of Ten Strategic Areas of Sustainable Protein. These areas were developed as the Sustainable Protein Impact Map: A Collaborative Action Framework, which provides the strategic direction in how we will meet the industry’s ultimate goal.

Branding, Marketing and Communications (BMC)

ProteinMB's Associate Showcase Campaign

As tariff measures unfold, ProteinMB is committed to supporting and promoting the local protein industry. To amplify our industry, we’re launching an Associate Showcase Campaign—a platform to highlight local protein businesses and create a hub for both the public and our industry.

If you’d like to be featured on our social channels, please complete the form below with the requested details. We’ll be sharing these highlights in the coming weeks!

We look forward to showcasing your business.

Get featured here

Finance (FI)

Several initiatives have been released recently to assist businesses managing tariff threats:

Export Development Canada (EDC) – Launching the Trade Impact Program to deploy $5 billion over two years, starting this year, to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products and help companies navigate the economic challenges imposed by the tariffs. It also offers credit insurance, financial solutions, and risk management advice for exporters.

Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) – Providing $500 million in favorably priced loans for businesses in sectors directly targeted by tariffs, along with businesses in their supply chains. Offers advisory services in financial management and market diversification.

Farm Credit Canada (FCC) – Providing $1 billion in new financing to help Canadian agriculture and food businesses address cash flow challenges and adjust to a new operating environment.

Temporary flexibilities to the EI Work-Sharing Program to increase access and maximum agreement duration. The Work-Sharing Program provides EI benefits to employees who agree with their employer to work reduced hours due to a decrease in business activity beyond their employer’s control.

Manitoba Agriculture Market Development – Offers business development support, including market research, trade events, and export funding.

Information & Knowledge (IK) 

North Forge IP Summit

North Forge, in collaboration with Biosciences Association of Manitoba, held their Annual IP Summit to provide IP education, networking and collaboration opportunities to Small and Medium sized Enterprises.

Policy and Infrastructure (PI)

Manitoba Water and Wastewater Association Conference

The Manitoba Water and Wastewater Association held their 50^th annual conference on March 3rd-5th offering opportunities to connect with water and wastewater professions and to learn about the various treatment methods available in water treatment. ProteinMB is actively working on improving access to water and wastewater disposal for the protein industry in Manitoba.

 Tariff Feedback

Tariff Feedback is requested by the Government of Canada on the effects of tariffs through their Consultation on Canada’s Response to United States Tariffs on Canadian Goods: Comment submission form, which will be open until April 2, 2025

Sustainable Protein: The Industry (SP)

Cultivate Sustainability Conference and Tradeshow

Food and Beverage Manitoba hosted the Cultivate conference on March 13 which brought together food industry professionals, experts, and innovators in the sustainability field for a day of engagement, knowledge building, and networking. ProteinMB hosted a panel discussion titled Beyond the Plate: Redefining the Protein Paradigm Through Whole-Resource Utilization and Innovative Thinking with panelists: Dr. Jitendra Paliwal (University of Winnipeg), Dr. Filiz Koksel (University of Manitoba), and Dr. Poonam Singh (Assiniboine College) who all shared their exiting research programs on by-products.

 Sustainable Protein Consortium

On March 19, the Sustainable Protein Consortium of Protein Processors gathered at Bee Maid Honey for an in-depth discussion on supply chain sustainability.
Members participated in operational discussions, explored best practices in sustainability, and toured Bee Maid’s facility. The session featured insights from Centrecan Supply Chain Solutions Inc., providing valuable expertise on supply chain efficiency and innovation.

By-Product Roundtable

On March 17, the By-Product Roundtable held its quarterly meeting, bringing together industry leaders to discuss by-product initiatives, sector events, and opportunities for ProteinMB to provide support. As the group works to drive collaborative initiatives, industry members are encouraged to register their by-products in the Manitoba By-Product Directory App to enhance visibility and facilitate new partnerships. 

The next meeting will be held in September, register here

Value Chain Mapping Tool

This month, ProteinMB applied the Value Chain Mapping tool to several protein processes, including a grain elevator, a seed processor, and a feed mill. This initiative enhances supply chain visibility by addressing waste, inefficiencies, and inconsistent measurement, monitoring, and verification (MMV) practices. Through facilitated mapping sessions, ProteinMB collaborates with industry to identify inefficiencies, advance circular economy goals, and uncover value-added opportunities. The official launch of the Value Chain Map Initiative is set for spring/summer—stay tuned for updates on how you can get involved!

Working Together (WT)

Design Sprint

ProteinMB and community members participated in a design sprint facilitated by Ashley Richard and Vanessa Lesperance at the Anish Learning Centre. The day was full of great ideas and perspectives shared to help guide ProteinMB’s Indigenous Engagement Strategy. Join us on March 25^th for the presentation of the new strategy.

Register here

Workforce (WF)

Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM)

The month of march is Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month! CALM is an opportunity for students K-12 to meet someone working in agriculture and learn how food is sustainably grown in our province. CALM is organized through Ag in the Classroom Manitoba. The ProteinMB team was pleased to volunteer for CALM in schools throughout the province.

Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Small Business Loan

BDC has a small business loan for less than $100,000 to help postpone principal payments for the first six months and protect cash flow.

For more information and to check eligibility, please click here

Call for Abstracts: Manitoba Sustainable Protein Research Symposium

Join us on July 7, 2025, at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, for the 5th Annual Manitoba Sustainable Protein Research Symposium, a premier event for trainees, academics, and industry professionals.

This year’s theme, “Bridging Borders: Innovating Protein for a Global Future,” highlights how innovation, collaboration, and technology are shaping the global protein landscape. The symposium will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, trainee research presentations, and numerous networking opportunities.

We invite poster and oral presentation submissions from those conducting research across the sustainable protein ecosystem, including food processing, animal nutrition, soil science, and related fields. Previously presented datasets will be accepted if they represent original research.

Abstract Submission Deadline: May 2, 2025
Submit your abstract and learn more: mbprotein.ca/presenter

Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your research, connect with industry leaders, and contribute to critical discussions shaping the future of protein.

Food Processing Skills Canada's Work Placement Program+ 

Food Processing Skills Canada’s Work Placement Program+  is a tool made to connect employers in Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing industry to connect with college and university students for work terms.

For more information and to apply as an employer or student, please click here

Foodtech Next Program

Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) has launched a funding opportunity for early-stage Canadian technology firms who want to be part of the food industry. The program is meant to accelerate the commercialization of Canadian innovation by generating first demonstration opportunities.

To learn more and apply, click here

Reach out to info@proteinMB.ca for information on engagement opportunities. 

ProteinMB Facilitated Engagements

Roundtables

•  Innovation -  March 21^st Register Here
•  Indigenous – March 25^th Register Here

Forums

• Partnership Forum – April 11^th Register Here

Consortiums

• Emerging Protein Processor Consortium –  Register Here

Working Groups 

• By-Products 

Reach out to info@proteinMB.ca for information on engagement opportunities. 

Upcoming Events:

• The CME Manitoba Gala Awards - March 27, Winnipeg, MB
• Assiniboine College’s Annual Applied Research Showcase – April 3, Brandon MB. Email Jane De Pauw @ depauwj@assiniboine.net for more information
• CropTalk Webinars – April 16, 23, 30, May 7, Online
• Ag in the Classroom AGM & Mixer – April 24 , Winnipeg, MB
• Future Now Expo – May 28-29, Winnipeg, MB
• Embracing Excellence – June 9-12, Winnipeg, MB 
• Manitoba Sustainable Research Symposium – July 7, Winnipeg, MB
• Pulse and Special Crops Convention – September 9-11, Whistler, AB