Ontario opens nominations for 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards across 10 categories
The province is recognizing outstanding agri-food leaders whose work protects Ontario's food independence and supports the sector's nearly $53 billion annual contribution to the economy.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ontario is opening nominations for the 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards, recognizing the outstanding efforts of the province's agri-food leaders. The awards honour farmers, processors, industry organizations, and businesses that protect the province's food independence.
The province will recognize agricultural excellence in 10 categories: Research and Innovation Excellence, Agribusiness Excellence, Education Excellence, Promotional Excellence, Urban Agriculture Excellence, Northern Business Excellence, Indigenous, Métis or Inuit-Owned Business or Indigenous, Métis or Inuit Community Group Excellence, Women's Farming Excellence, Youth Excellence, and Farm Family Excellence.
Nominations are being accepted until September 4, 2026, through ontario.ca/excellenceinagriculture. Self-nominations and nominations for other people or businesses are welcome.
Ontario's agriculture and food sector contributes nearly $53 billion to the provincial GDP and employs roughly 1 in 9 people across the province. The awards support the province's Grow Ontario Strategy by raising awareness of high-quality, local food grown and made in Ontario.
By the numbers
How many award categories are there in the 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards?
Ontario's 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards include 10 categories: Research and Innovation Excellence, Agribusiness Excellence, Education Excellence, Promotional Excellence, Urban Agriculture Excellence, Northern Business Excellence, Indigenous, Métis or Inuit-Owned Business or Indigenous, Métis or Inuit Community Group Excellence, Women's Farming Excellence, Youth Excellence, and Farm Family Excellence.
When is the nomination deadline for the 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards?
Nominations for Ontario's 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards close on September 4, 2026.
How much does Ontario's agriculture and food sector contribute to the provincial economy?
Ontario's agriculture and food sector contributes nearly $53 billion to the provincial GDP.
