BMBRI Approves $193,188 in 2026–27 Research Funding to Advance Barley Innovation and Sustainability
Saskatoon, SK — April 27, 2026 — The Brewing and Malting Barley Research Institute (BMBRI) is investing up to $193,188 in applied barley research for the 2026–27 fiscal year, supporting projects focused on variety development, agronomy, malt barley quality, and sustainability.
A significant portion of this funding supports BMBRI’s participation in the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership (SCAP) Barley Cluster, a $9.6 million, five-year initiative aimed at improving productivity while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The program amplifies BMBRI’s investment, leveraging approximately $21 in producer and government funding for every $1 contributed by BMBRI.
BMBRI also launched a highly competitive call for research proposals, with submissions closely aligned to its strategic priorities. Notably, this was the first year that external funders were invited to participate in the funding process, strengthening collaboration and broadening investment perspectives.
Nine projects were selected for funding through a combination of BMBRI and partner contributions. SaskBarley, Alberta Grains, and Research Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) contributed $133,760, alongside $95,592 from BMBRI, to advance priority research initiatives.
“These investments reflect strong collaboration across the barley value chain and a shared commitment to advancing sustainable, high-performing barley production systems,” noted Gina Feist, BMBRI Executive Director of BMBRI.
The funded research supports Canada’s malting barley sector’s long-term competitiveness and sustainability. Learn more about BMBRI research projects and priorities at https://bmbri.ca/research/desirable-traits-for-research-breeding/ .
The Brewing and Malting Barley Research Institute (BMBRI) has provided a voice for maltsters and brewers in malt barley research, and new variety development, for over 75 years. For more information, please visit: https://bmbri.ca/
Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) is a not-for-profit organization, mandated to target strategic investments in producer-led, results-driven agriculture research to power the profitability, productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability of agriculture in Alberta. RDAR’s funding comes from the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. For more information, please visit: www.rdar.ca
SaskBarley (the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission) is a producer-led organization dedicated to improving the profitability and long-term competitiveness of barley farming in Saskatchewan. Funded by barley producers, SaskBarley invests in research, market development, and extension to support agronomic innovation, expand market opportunities, and deliver practical, farm-focused knowledge. Through initiatives like the BarleyBin resource platform, producer communications, and strategic partnerships across the value chain, SaskBarley works to ensure Saskatchewan growers remain globally competitive while producing high-quality barley for feed, malt, and food markets. For more information, please visit: https://saskbarley.com/
Alberta Grains is a farmer-directed, not-for-profit organization that represents Alberta’s wheat and barley farmers. Through research, advocacy and extension, Alberta Grains works to improve the profitability and long-term sustainability of the grain industry. For more information, please visit: https://www.albertagrains.com/
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