Genome Canada was created amid the excitement of the Human Genome Project. Convinced that Canada needed a dedicated organization to provide both funding and leadership in this space, a group of Canadian science leaders called upon the government to get more involved in genomics. Genome Canada was born. While the early years focused on capacity building, it was clear from day one that Canada’s approach would be multi-sectoral and interdisciplinary. This approach has distinguished Genome Canada among national genomics initiatives, with technologies and infrastructure developed in a human health context also used to sequence salmon, spruce or wheat. Twenty years on, Canada is a world leader in the application of genomics across diverse sectors, particularly in forestry, fisheries, agriculture and mining. This is an exhilarating time for genomics and an exciting new era for Genome Canada. As the science explodes in multiple directions, we are building on our strong foundation of achievements to meet new challenges and capitalize on new opportunities. As Canada’s only national organization focused exclusively on harnessing the power and potential of genomics, we are committed to mobilizing the capacity of this relatively young science to improve the lives of Canadians.