Saskatchewan Celebrates Global Biotech Week with Innovation Events

Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison has officially designated September 20 to 27, 2025, as Global Biotech Week in Saskatchewan. This week aims to highlight the significant contributions of biotechnology to the province’s economy and future growth prospects. Activities throughout the week will showcase the advancements made in agricultural biotechnology, emphasizing the role it plays in enhancing productivity and sustainability.

Coordinated by Ag-West Bio, a non-profit organization that promotes innovation in agricultural and food biosciences, Global Biotech Week serves as a platform for industry members, researchers, and the public to engage with the latest developments in biotechnology. Ag-West Bio’s members include a mix of public research institutions, private companies, and economic development groups, reflecting a broad spectrum of the biotechnology sector, from bioproducts to health and nutrition.

During the announcement, Harrison noted, “Thanks to made-in-Saskatchewan biotech innovations, our producers can grow crops with higher yields and increased resilience, and our livestock producers have more productive herds. Overall, our industry is more productive, profitable and sustainable.”

The origins of National Biotechnology Week can be traced back to BIOTECanada, which initiated the first celebration in 2003, encouraging provinces to organize events that raise awareness and celebrate advancements in biotechnology. This year’s focus is on the myriad applications of biotechnology, particularly in agriculture, which has sparked considerable debate regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

As the use of biotechnology has evolved, it has incorporated sophisticated techniques such as genetic engineering, which emerged in the 1970s. This integration of biological information and technology has opened new avenues in fields like nanotechnology and regenerative medicine.

One of the highlights of the week is the “Biotech at the Market” event, held at Gather Local Market in Saskatoon. This event features biotech trivia and showcases local brewing and distilling practices. Notable participation includes 9 Mile Legacy Brewing, known for its collaboration with Seager Wheeler Farm to produce the “Isle of Wight” golden ale, which utilizes heritage barley. This ale was made available in time for the recent Harvest Festival in Rosthern.

Ag-West Bio has also invested in the LGCY Innovation Hub, located within 9 Mile Legacy Brewing, to further its commitment to sustainable practices in Saskatchewan. Cassy Appelt, Director of LGCY, remarked on the collaborative spirit of Saskatchewan farmers, stating, “It comes from our roots in Saskatchewan farming, where two heads are better than one and neighbours help neighbours without hesitation.”

Saskatchewan is recognized internationally for its contributions to biotechnology, housing one-third of Canada’s agricultural biotechnology sector. The province’s research institutes are leaders in crop breeding and genetics, contributing to the growth of the sector.

Karen Churchill, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Ag-West Bio, emphasized the importance of Global Biotech Week, saying it brings together scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, and the public to understand how bioscience is shaping Saskatchewan’s future.

Established in 1989 by Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Ag-West Bio aims to support the province’s ag-biotech cluster and facilitate the commercialization of new technologies. Saskatchewan’s bioscience research hub is anchored at the University of Saskatchewan and Innovation Place in Saskatoon, fostering growth and innovation in the agri-food sector.

To commemorate Global Biotech Week, Ag-West Bio has organized a series of events across the province. These include activities aimed at primary, secondary, and post-secondary students, as well as the general public, showcasing local research infrastructure and biotech enterprises. Events range from in-person engagements in Saskatoon and Regina to online webinars.

A notable event is the Amazing Biotech Race, where high school and Sask Polytechnic students explore the Innovation Saskatchewan Research and Technology Park, discovering various biotechnology businesses. Additionally, the Global Institute on Food Security at the University of Saskatchewan is showcasing Canada’s only biofoundry dedicated to agriculture and food innovation. This facility utilizes cutting-edge tools such as automation and artificial intelligence to enhance agricultural production.

Throughout the week, institutions like the Canadian Light Source and the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre Inc. are inviting the public for tours, further expanding the reach of biotechnology education. Celebrations are also underway for significant anniversaries of organizations such as Genome Prairie and VIDO, which are marking 25 and 50 years, respectively, with events including a symposium focused on infectious disease prevention.

As biotechnology continues to drive innovation across Canada, Saskatchewan’s initiatives during Global Biotech Week highlight the province’s commitment to fostering growth and collaboration within the sector, ultimately strengthening its position on the global stage.