Canadian Cattle Young Leaders (CYL) 2026-27 Applications Now Open

The Program Welcomes Young People Ages 18 to 35 from Across Canada, Involved in Various Aspects of the Beef Supply Chain.

Through mentorship, networking, and travel, the Canadian CYL Program acts as an industry succession planning tool to equip the next generation of leaders with the skills and tools they need to continue to drive the growth and profitability of the Canadian beef industry. Since established by the Canadian Cattle Association in 2010, the program has seen over 200 CYL graduates.

Each year, 24 semi-finalists are selected from an impressive pool of applicants from across the country and invited to the annual CYL Selections event where they are judged in roundtable discussions centred around timely industry topics. From this event, 16 program participants are chosen to participate in the program and paired with a hand-picked industry leader for a nine-month mentorship in the participants specified area of interest in the beef industry. Participants also receive $3,000 to use towards learning opportunities of their choosing. Along with industry networking opportunities, participants often form strong relationships within their peer group in the program who are equally passionate about the success of the Canadian beef industry and serve as meaningful contacts and friendships for years to come.

If you are a young person looking to take your career in the beef industry to the next level, or you know of a young industry leader who would excel in this program, please visit our website at canadiancattleyoungleaders.com to learn more and apply.

Applications for the 2025–2026 program year are open from January 5, 2026, to March 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm MT.

The opportunities offered to the next generation through the Canadian CYL Program would not be possible without the generous support of its Platinum Partners, McDonald’s Canada and Cargill, Foundation Partners MNP and Elanco, and Gold Partners Farm Credit Canada, Alltech, and RBC Future Launch.

This was first published in Volume 6 Issue 1 of ABP Magazine (February 2026). Watch for more digital content from the magazine on ABP Daily.