Support for Agriculture
Writing and Beyond
BC Farm Writers’ Association facilitates funding for members, students and journalists to ensure the stories that need to be told can be and that agriculture, which is at the heart of these stories, is able to thrive under the next generation’s care.
About Our Bursaries
The Tim Armstrong Educational Foundation was established in 1980, a year after the long-time publisher and editor of Country Life in BC passed away. BC Farm Writers’ Association and like-minded people and businesses donated to establish the foundation which, through the Tim Armstrong Bursary, gives a minimum of one $1,000 bursary to a student each year.
In 2023, another icon of agricultural writing passed away. David Schmidt, who was the editor emeritus and a significant contributor to Country Life in BC and other publications touched the lives of many in the ag community – including fellow writers. To honour David, the David Schmidt Legacy Award supports writers in telling stories that matter.
Both programs are managed under the Tim Armstrong Educational Foundation in association with the BC Farm Writers’ Association.
Tim Armstrong Bursary
The Tim Armstrong Memorial Bursary is a $1,000 bursary open to students with proven ties to BC who are enrolled in the second year or higher of a full-time agriculture or journalism program at a university, institute or regional college in British Columbia or another Canadian province or territory.
Applicants must be either a Canadian citizen or be a permanent resident of Canada. Selection is based on academic merit and financial need.
Application Details:
- The 2026 award applications close December 31, 2026
- Winners will be announced by January 31, 2027
- Click on the cover letter and checklist for full details about submitting your application
David Schmidt Legacy Award
The David Schmidt Legacy Award celebrates the craft and career of David Schmidt, a passionate agriculture communicator and journalist. Researching in-depth stories can involve significant expenses to acquire information and work with key sources.
The David Schmidt Legacy Award supports journalists and communicators, content creators and storytellers to dig deeper and tell evidence-based stories about BC agriculture and food production. It is open to all mediums, including (but not limited to) print or web-based publications, film, video, television, radio and podcasts.
More information about this award will be provided once available.
BC Farm Writers' Association Travel Bursary
Professional development is a key component of any journalist’s career and in agriculture that can take a variety of forms.
One opportunity is attending the annual Canadian Farm Writers’ Federation conference and/or the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists annual conference and this bursary assists with travel or accommodation costs for attendance at those events.
One award is given each year and applicants must be members in good standing with the BC Farm Writers’ Association.
To Apply: Please contact bcfarmwriters@gmail.com for more information on how to apply.
