Women Farmers Drive Growth in Canadian Agriculture

From bookkeeping to billion-dollar operations, women are reshaping the future of farming.

For the first time since 1991, Statistics Canada reports a significant increase in female farm operators across Canada. In 2021, there were nearly 80,000 women leading farm operations. Today, that number is closer to 90,000—a milestone that reflects a powerful shift in the agricultural landscape.

Traditionally, women’s roles on farms were often behind the scenes, handling bookkeeping or organizational tasks. But times have changed. Women now represent 30% of all farm operators in Canada, and in some provinces, that number is even higher. In British Columbia, for example, women account for nearly 40% of farm operators.

Technology adoption is another area where women are making strides. Did you know that women operate more than 25% of robotic milking systems in Canada? This trend underscores their growing influence in modern, tech-driven farming practices. They are also driving many precision agriculture practices.

The financial impact is equally impressive. Farms led by women earning between $1 million and $2 million in revenue have grown by more than 1,300 operators. Even more striking, farms earning over $2 million saw female operators increase by 86%. These numbers tell a story of leadership, innovation, and resilience.

To celebrate these achievements, Farms.com, in partnership with our team at Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference, publishes the Spotlite on Women Digital Magazine twice a year. The 2025 Winter Edition of Spotlite on Women is now available online—perfect for cozy reading by the fireplace. Dive into inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical advice from women shaping the future of agriculture.

Explore these inspiring stories in the 2025 Winter Issue of Spotlite on Women Digital Magazine, feature articles include: 

• AI in Business – Threat or Opportunity?  

• Women with GRIT Inspire Leadership Growth  

• Photo Spread with pics from 2025 AWC East 

• Canada is a Food Production Powerhouse 

• The Joy of Contributing to Something Bigger than Yourself 

• A Widow who was the Social Media Maven of her day – over 200 years ago  

Like what you read in Spotlite on Women magazine? Register for AWC West 2026 in Calgary, March 8-10, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, to get connected, be inspired, and learn practical tips to help either grow your farm and food business, or put a spark in your corporate career. Invest in yourself and network with others passionate about agriculture!

Enjoy the videobelow of the 2025 AWC East highlights.