Stay informed with the LNN Daily Newsletter
ID 10099826 © Alexkalina | Dreamstime.com
Three Scholarships

SouthGrow Regional Initiative announces 2025 Agri-Food Futures Scholarship Program

Jun 26, 2025 | 11:12 AM

SouthGrow Regional Initiative, in collaboration with MNP LLP, D-Com Energy Solutions, and Community Futures Lethbridge Region, have announced the re-launching of the Agri-Food Futures Scholarship Program.

Officials say this initiative seeks to support and encourage students pursuing education in fields related to agriculture and the food industry in Southern Alberta. In addition to the SouthGrow Scholarship – the MNP LLP Scholarship and D-Com Energy Solutions Scholarship will be part of the Southgrow Agrifood Futures Scholarship Program.

Three scholarships of up to $2,500 each will be available for students who plan to pursue careers in the agrifood industry in Southern Alberta.

Students must be currently enrolled in one of the following institutions: Lethbridge Polytechnic, the University of Lethbridge, or Red Crow College.

SouthGrow Regional Initiative’s Board of Directors established the scholarship in 2019. Officials say it was designed to provide financial assistance to deserving students who demonstrate a passion for the agri-food industry and a commitment to contributing to its future growth and sustainability. Priority will be given to students currently residing in a SouthGrow member community demonstrating academic excellence, community involvement, and a clear passion for innovation in agriculture and food systems.

Organizers acknowledge what they describe as incredible support from their community partners to make the program a success. These valuable partnerships, officials say, underscore the collective objective of supporting the regional agri-food industry while promoting the growth and success of talented individuals within it.

Interested applicants can submit their applications electronically through the form by Aug. 1, 2025. For further information about the SouthGrow Agri-Food Futures Scholarship Program and the SouthGrow Regional Initiative, visit https://www.southgrow.com/. Or email peter.casurella@southgrow.com.

“At MNP, we’re proud to support the SouthGrow Agri-Food Scholarship Program,” says Bruce Warkentin, MNP LLP. “Agriculture is at the heart of our communities, and by empowering young people to pursue education in this field, we’re helping build a sustainable, resilient future for the agri-food industry.”

“D-Com Energy Solutions is excited to be a partner in the SouthGrow Agri-Food Scholarship Program,” states Matthew Horvath, DCom Energy Solutions. “With energy extending beyond electricity – food energy and agricultural innovation fuels people. D-Com is committed to helping students find their passion and helping students who will help transform both sectors in meaningful ways.”

“The SouthGrow Agri-Food Scholarship Program is an investment in the future of our region’s agri-food sector,” shares Laurie Lyckman, SouthGrow Regional. “By supporting passionate students pursuing post-secondary education in agriculture and food innovation, we’re cultivating the next generation of leaders who will strengthen rural economies and enhance food security across southern Alberta.”