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- calendar_today November 7, 2026
Introduction to the Excellence in Agriculture Awards
The Ontario government has unveiled the 2026 recipients of the Excellence in Agriculture Awards, recognizing individuals, businesses, and organizations for outstanding achievement and leadership in the province’s agriculture and food sectors. The awards aim to celebrate those who have significantly contributed to advancing excellence, innovation, and sustainability within Ontario's agriculture industry.
Minister’s Award
This year, the prestigious Minister’s Award was presented to Drone Spray Canada, located in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. The award recognizes operations that exhibit exemplary leadership and make a transformative impact on Ontario’s agricultural landscape.
Category Excellence Awards
Research and Innovation Excellence
The Research and Innovation Excellence award went to Drone Spray Canada, acknowledging their continuous contributions in advancing agricultural technology and research.
Agribusiness Excellence
The Agribusiness Excellence award was received by the Western Fair Association (The Grove) in the County of Middlesex, for their outstanding role in fostering the growth and success of agri-businesses.
Education Excellence
The Education Excellence award was bestowed on the Ottawa Valley Seed Growers Association from the City of Ottawa, in recognition of their leadership in agricultural education and community engagement.
Urban Agriculture Excellence
Honoring innovative urban food systems, the Urban Agriculture Excellence award was presented to the Cambridge Food Bank in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo.
Northern Business Excellence
The Northern Business Excellence award went to the Northern Ontario Farm Innovation Alliance in Temiskaming District, reflecting their commitment to advancing agriculture in northern Ontario.
Women’s Farming Excellence
Recognizing women’s leadership in agriculture, Janet Harrop from the County of Wellington received the Women’s Farming Excellence award.
Farm Family Excellence
The Farm Family Excellence award honored Hy-Hope Farm in the Regional Municipality of Durham for multigenerational commitment and community involvement in agriculture.
Honourable Mentions for 2026
Several organizations and individuals received honourable mentions for their notable achievements:
- Research and Innovation Excellence: Agriculture Environmental Renewal Canada (AERC) Inc. (Ottawa), SK8 Biotechnologies Inc. (York Region)
- Agribusiness Excellence: Elite Agri Solutions Inc. (Middlesex County), WOWBUTTER Foods (Perth County)
- Education Excellence: Sandi Brock (Perth County)
- Women’s Farming Excellence: l’Union Culturelle des Franco-Ontariennes (UCFO) (Prescott and Russell United Counties)
Continued Commitment to Agricultural Leadership
The 2026 award recipients reflect the Ontario agriculture sector’s strength, diversity, and ongoing dedication to innovation, education, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Through initiatives like the Excellence in Agriculture Awards, the province aims to encourage best practices and recognize those setting new standards in the field.
Conclusion
These recognitions highlight the importance of celebrating excellent achievements in all areas of Ontario’s agriculture and food industries. The Excellence in Agriculture Awards continue to serve as an inspiration for individuals and organizations committed to advancing the industry for the benefit of communities across Ontario and beyond.
Related coverage
Source: news.ontario.ca.
