By Dori Modney

SouthGrow and MNP issue call for Agri-food Futures Scholarship applicants

Aug 9, 2021 | 4:57 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB. — In a continuing investment in the future of Southern Alberta`s agri-food economy, the SouthGrow Regional Economic Development Alliance has issued a call for applicants to apply for their annual Agri-food Futures Scholarships.

As SouthGrow Chairperson, Jim Willet explains, this is the third year the organization has issued scholarships to support young people who are planning careers in this sector.

“With these scholarships we’re sending the message that there are excellent careers in southern Alberta working in and around the food industry, from farm to table, and that you can secure an education and a good paying job right here.”

A 2018 Brookings institute report noted that over half of the world’s population is now middle class or wealthier – and the trend lines continue to improve. As well, the UN estimates the global population is headed to nearly 11 billion by 2100 – meaning there will be a lot of mouths to feed, and increasingly wealthy populations around the world have more money to spend on high quality food from regions like Southern Alberta.

This year, leading national accounting, tax and business consulting firm, MNP, has joined SouthGrow in sponsorship of the scholarships. Bruce Warkentin of MNP, provided a $1500.00 donation to be split between the two scholarships.

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“MNP strongly believes in the future of agri-business in southern Alberta and the investments we make today in our youth will result in significant returns for all stakeholders.”

SouthGrow Executive Director, Peter Casurella, also explains that when you add in the impact of climate change, the forecasts get even better for the food industry in Canada.

“Many of the global regions that are experiencing sharp increases in food demand also face challenges with increasing their food supply as climate change negatively impacts the efficiency of their production. We’ve got it comparatively good in Canada and will have an easier time with adaptation.“

“That all adds up to opportunity”. says Casurella.

MNP has deep partnership roots in Southern Alberta`s agri-food industry so the company`s $1500 donation provides a great impact.

The Agri-food Future Scholarship program consists of two annual awards that go to one student attending the University of Lethbridge, and one attending Lethbridge College. This year the value of each scholarship is $2250.00, to be dispersed as one-time payments.

Applicants must:

• Be , or Protected Person (visa students are not eligible)
• Be a permanent resident of one of the 26 SouthGrow Communities
• Be enrolled in full-time studies at either the University of Lethbridge or Lethbridge College for the coming year in either an undergraduate or graduate program.
• Have an intention to use your education to work in the Agri-food industry in Southern Alberta upon graduation.

Application Process:

Please submit the following documents to peter.casurella@southgrow.com for consideration.

• An official transcript (high school or to-date university transcript, whichever is applicable. Photocopies or scans are acceptable)
• A 1-page letter addressed to the Board of Directors of the SouthGrow Regional Initiative that introduces yourself and explains how you hope to apply the educational program you are enrolled in to pursue a career in the agri-food industry in southern Alberta.
• Two professional references who can be contacted to speak on your behalf.

Please submit your application by August 31, 2021 to be considered in the 2021 round.

Any other questions can be directed to application guidelines at www.southgrow.com or by emailing peter.casurella@southgrow.com