The Manitoba Agriculture Food Development Centre (FDC) is a key player in driving agri-food innovation in Manitoba. Strategically located in Portage La Prairie, the FDC supports food entrepreneurs, processors, and industry professionals in transforming raw ingredients into market-ready products.
Manitoba’s agricultural sector is a major contributor to the province’s economy, and the FDC is crucial in maintaining and advancing this critical industry. Connecting primary producers with food processors and other sectoral stakeholders, the centre fosters economic growth and promotes sustainability and innovation.
The FDC offers a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of the agri-food industry. At the heart of its mission is product development. The centre’s team of experienced food scientists and technologists works with businesses to develop new products or refine existing ones, ensuring they meet industry standards. The FDC also focuses on food safety and quality assurance, guiding clients through regulatory compliance and risk management.
In addition, the FDC assists in process optimization, helping businesses increase efficiency, maximize yield, and reduce costs. This technical support enables manufacturers to produce high-quality products economically. The centre also provides expertise in packaging solutions, helping clients design packaging that protects food products, appeals to consumers, and meets environmental sustainability standards.
The FDC’s fully equipped pilot plant allows businesses to test new processes and produce small batches, minimizing financial risks and facilitating thorough product testing and refinement.
Many success stories have emerged from collaborations with the FDC. Local and national brands across various segments—from artisanal cheeses to innovative plant-based proteins—have realized their product visions through the FDC’s resources and expertise.
About our summer programming
Art Borups Corners is a collective of volunteers, artists, youth, community-based projects, nonprofit organizations, academia and businesses exploring capacity building through the arts, climate and food sector entrepreneurship. Join us this summer as we connect with Winnipeg and Manitoba-based arts, programs and organizations that inspire us, and to learn about the work they do best.
Youth, Arts and Media Team summer activities are supported with funding and support from a number of partners and collaborators, including: Global Dignity Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, the University of Minnesota Duluth, Manitoba Agriculture and the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. We also thank the OpenAI Researcher Access Program, Agri-Food and Agriculture Canada and the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Skills Program. Thank you for supporting the Youth, Arts and Media Team.
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