Calgary, Alta. (Rural Roots Canada) – Pioneer is celebrating 100 years globally, and more than 80 years alongside Canadian farmers, highlighting a legacy shaped by innovation and long-standing partnerships over generations.

The seed brand, part of Corteva Agriscience, traces its roots back to 1926 and the introduction of hybrid corn. Canadian operations followed a decade later, beginning in Ontario and expanding nationwide.

Loralee Orr, Canadian Commercial Leader with Corteva, says the milestone reflects both longevity and connection to agriculture.

“When you think about brands that have been around for 100 years, there aren’t many,” she says. “There’s a real sense of pride, I think, that comes along with having those deep roots in Canadian agriculture.”

Pioneer established early operations near Tilbury, Ontario, and steadily expanded its footprint, adding crops such as soybeans and canola while developing region-specific research programs across the country.

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“In 1936, the first hybrid corn was planted in Ontario,” says Orr. ” From that point forward, we’ve got milestones each decade of expansion of our footprint.”

That expansion, explains Orr, has been driven by a focus on improving productivity and addressing challenges faced by farmers.

“There’s a continual drive to bring new technology to market that solves problems that the farmers have… it’s just improving how much we can grow on each acre that we have.”

And farmers remain at the centre of that work.

“Farmers are the root of our success,” she confirms. “Whatever we’re doing, it needs to be relevant to and help the farmer be more successful.”

The company says it remains focused on innovation and supporting producers as agriculture continues to evolve.

Photo credit: Corteva Agriscience