Agri-business professionals from around the world come to the Calgary Stampede, not for the rodeo, but to conduct millions of dollars of business. Rounded up by the International Agriculture committee, almost 2,000 business leaders from over 30 different countries come here every July searching for the next big deal.

"Many of the deals that make Canada a world leader in producing and exporting agriculture products begin at The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," says Herb McLane, chair of the International Agriculture committee. During the 2008 Stampede, agriculture representatives from Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, Ireland, Mexico and the United States came together to network and build relationships. Other countries that attended this year included Sri Lanka, Iceland, Tanzania, Iran and Brazil to name a few.

McLane says all aspects of the agriculture industry are represented during the 10-day Stampede including fertilizer companies, pharmaceutical and vaccine companies, meat packers, grain producers, wholesale distributors, livestock genetics and livestock equipment.

The 30-member volunteer International Agriculture committee that makes this possible is comprised of Alberta business leaders who have extensive knowledge of international marketplace opportunities, and who connect guests with experts and key contacts. “The committee is focused on bringing the world agriculture community to Calgary to share ideas, foster friendships and cultural understanding, and facilitate business opportunities - the results are showing,” says McLane.

The interaction frequently leads to exporting deals in everything from livestock, animal genetics, grains and food. Foreign investment opportunities are also highlighted.

For example, a deal inked recently led to Alta Exports International (AEI) sending 2,217 Canadian purebred cattle to customers in Russia. The shipment worth almost $4 million, included 1,000 bred Angus heifers, 50 Angus bulls, 800 Holstein heifers, 17 Holstein bulls, 340 bred Hereford heifers and 10 Hereford bulls. More could be shipped at a later date.