2026 SouthGrow Agri-food Futures Scholarship now open

Posted on September 17, 2026 by Sunny South News

SouthGrow Regional Initiative 

The SouthGrow Regional Initiative, in partnership with MNP LLP, D-Com Energy Solutions and Community Futures Lethbridge Region, is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Agri-Food Futures Scholarship Program.

The program supports local students pursuing post-secondary education and future careers in southern Alberta’s agri-food sector. This year, scholarships will be awarded to three outstanding students attending Lethbridge Polytechnic, the University of Lethbridge and Red Crow College.

Established by the SouthGrow Regional Initiative Board of Directors in 2019, the Agri-Food Futures Scholarship Program reflects an ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of professionals who will contribute to the growth and innovation of southern Alberta’s agriculture and food industries.

“The SouthGrow Agri-Food Scholarship Program is about creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders in our region,” shares Laurie Lyckman, Chair of SouthGrow Regional . “By supporting students who are building careers in agriculture and food innovation, we’re helping strengthen the talent and

leadership that will keep southern Alberta’s agri-food sector growing for years to come.”

SouthGrow is a regional economic development alliance representing 30 communities across south-central Alberta. Through collaboration with municipalities, industry and community partners, SouthGrow works to create new economic opportunities while supporting the quality of life that makes the region a great place to live and work.

The scholarship program continues to benefit from tremendous support from community and industry partners. These partnerships help provide meaningful opportunities for students while supporting the long-term strength of one of southern Alberta’s most important economic sectors.

“D-Com Energy Solutions is proud to continue supporting the SouthGrow Agri-Food Futures Scholarship Program,” says Matthew Horvath, General Manager of D-Com Energy Solutions. “By supporting students as they pursue their interests and develop new ideas, we are helping prepare the next generation to

bring practical innovation and positive change to southern Alberta’s agriculture and energy sectors.

“At MNP, we’re pleased to continue supporting the SouthGrow Agri-Food Scholarship Program,” says Bruce Warkentin, MNP LLP. “Investing in the next generation of agriculture professionals is an investment in the future of our communities. By helping students build their knowledge and skills, we can support a strong and innovative agri-food sector for years to come.”

Scholarship recipients will be selected through a comprehensive evaluation process that considers their commitment to the agri-food sector, their potential to make a positive impact and the strength of their application. The selection process will also reflect SouthGrow’s commitment to creating inclusive and accessible opportunities for students throughout the region.

Interested applicants can submit their applications electronically by October 30, 2026 at 4:00 p.m., to https://www.southgrow.com/resources-and-information/agrifood-futures-scholarship. For any further inquiries or clarifications, please contact Peter Casurella @ peter.casurella@southgrow.com directly.