June 30, 2010, Vineland, Ont. – Dr. Jim Brandle, CEO, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre today issued a response to the G20’s communiqué to “harness the private sector for agricultural innovation” in the International Financial Institutions and Development section.

“It’s the reason why we exist,” said Brandle. “Vineland’s research and innovation mandate and business model is to collaborate and harness private sector resources specifically for agricultural innovation.”

Vineland works directly with industry to develop export-ready technology, and internationally valued science for food production to better feed the world.

“We are doing this right now. We are ready to take on the challenge from the G20 and help to feed the world,” added Donald Ziraldo, Vineland’s chair and co-founder of Inniskillin Wines. “At Vineland we have the vehicle to do exactly what the G20 is calling for. And we want all of Canadian industry to take advantage of our unique position to lead consumer science, applied genomics and sustainable production for horticulture.”

Vineland’s role as a Canadian research, science and innovation institution has recently received new targets, goals and funding from Ontario and Canadian governments.

“Our business model works directly with the private sector, industry, science and other partners,” added Brandle. “They are investing in drought resistance science, sustainable/organic research, innovation for food products that we can take to the other members of the G20 and the rest of the world.”