FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Winnipeg, MB – The Wheat Growers Association is proud to announce that David Hansen, retired Chief Executive Officer of Canterra Seeds, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Shovel of Gratitude, the organization’s highest recognition for individuals whose leadership has made a lasting contribution to Canadian agriculture.
The award recognizes leaders who have gone above and beyond in advancing the competitiveness, innovation, and long-term success of Canada’s agriculture sector.
“David has always been willing to tackle the difficult conversations before they became obvious to everyone else,” said Daryl Fransoo, Chair of the Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association. “His leadership during the early discussions around the future of Canada’s plant breeding system helped shape a conversation that continues to define our industry’s future.”
More than a decade ago, Hansen joined the Wheat Growers and other industry leaders in advocating for a more sustainable, competitive approach to cereal variety development. While those discussions were often framed around value creation, their broader objective was to strengthen Canada’s innovation system by attracting investment, increasing competition, and allowing public researchers to focus on the discovery science that drives future breakthroughs.
“Looking back, many of the challenges we discussed then have only become more urgent,” Fransoo said. “David demonstrated the kind of leadership that sees around corners, and that’s exactly why we’re recognizing him today.”
The Wheat Growers say the award is not only a celebration of Hansen’s career, but also a reminder of the importance of listening to visionary leaders before challenges become crises.
“Canadian agriculture has no shortage of talented people with bold ideas,” Fransoo added. “Our responsibility as an industry is to recognize those voices early, work together, and build the future before circumstances force our hand.”
The Shovel of Gratitude is presented periodically by the Wheat Growers Association to individuals whose vision, leadership, and commitment have left Canadian agriculture stronger for future generations.
Media Contact
Andy Yanko
Head of Communications
Wheat Growers Association