Labatt and SaskBarley launch new scholarship supporting barley research in Canada
For Immediate Release
(Saskatoon, SK) – July 16, 2025 – SaskBarley is proud to announce a new partnership with Labatt Breweries of Canada, launching a graduate scholarship that supports Canadian research aimed at advancing barley production. Labatt will contribute $10,000 in annual funding to support MSc and PhD research at Canadian institutions.
Barley is a critical ingredient in the brewing process and Saskatchewan consistently delivers some of the highest-quality supply in the world. Labatt sources 85 per cent of the barley used in its Canadian portfolio, including Bud Light, Budweiser and Busch, purchasing approximately $30 million worth of barley annually from Saskatchewan growers.
“Great beer starts with great barley and great barley starts with great farmers,” said Ivana Yelich, Head of Government Affairs for Labatt. “Supporting SaskBarley is one way we’re investing in the future of barley production and in the people and research that keep it thriving.”
The Labatt contribution enhances SaskBarley’s long-standing commitment to supporting the next generation of barley researchers. Graduate students at Canadian institutions can apply for up to $4,000 for master’s-level research and $6,000 for PhD research.
“We’re thrilled to work with Labatt to support students whose research can help farmers grow better barley,” said Cody Glenn, Chair of SaskBarley. “Whether it’s boosting disease resistance or improving sustainability, these students are contributing to real-world solutions for farmers and the entire barley value chain.”
Applications for the SaskBarley scholarships open in June each summer and the 2025 deadline is October 15 at 12 p.m. CST. Full details can be found at www.saskbarley.com/scholarships
Media Contacts:
Serra McSymytz, Communications Manager (SaskBarley)
Smcsymytz@saskbarley.com
Kirsten Cooper, Sr. Director, Communications (Labatt Breweries of Canada)
Kirsten.cooper@labatt.com
About SaskBarley
SaskBarley is a producer-led development commission that represents barley producers across Saskatchewan. Through research investments, market development, and grower engagement, SaskBarley works to ensure long-term profitability and sustainability for barley in the province.
About Labatt Breweries of Canada
Labatt Breweries is one of Canada’s founding businesses and its leading beverage company, with over 3,600 employees; an unmatched portfolio of over 70 quality beers, ready-to-drink, and non-alcoholic products; six breweries and four craft breweries from coast-to-coast. Through 176 years of brewing excellence, we are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life’s moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and made a meaningful impact in our communities through a collective purpose of creating a Future with More Cheers.
