Ontario’s new Excellence in Agriculture Program

The award celebrates innovations and advancements benefiting the sector and rural communities.

By Andrew Joseph, Farms.com; Image: Lisa-Blue/E+ photo

The Government of Ontario has announced its new 2023 Excellence in Agriculture Program as a means to showcase the efforts, innovations, and achievements across the agriculture and food sectors.

The program recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations that drive the industry forward, adopt new technologies, and increase awareness across Ontario’s agri-food value chain.

"Ontario’s agriculture and food industry includes some of the most dedicated and innovative individuals province-wide," stated Lisa Thompson, the Minister for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). "The Excellence in Agriculture Awards will give recognition to the people in these industries that go above and beyond, setting the standard and leading by example to ensure we can continue to Grow Ontario."

This initiative will celebrate innovations and advancements that benefit farmers, processors, industry organizations, and people and businesses across the sector.

Ontario’s agriculture and food industries are built on a foundation created by the people who live them every day, and this is their opportunity to be recognized for it.

This year, the province is recognizing agricultural excellence in 11 categories:

1. Excellence in Food Processing;
2. Excellence in Research and Innovation;
3. Women’s Excellence;
4. Youth Excellence;
5. Excellence in Agri-Food Education;
6. Northern Business Excellence;
7. Indigenous-Owned Business or Community Excellence;
8. Family Farm Excellence;
9. Agri-Food Promotional Excellence;
10. Supply Chain Excellence;
11. Excellence in Agri-Food Talent Recruitment.

The Government of Ontario is committed to supporting the success of the agriculture and food industries and helping our rural communities thrive. Through this program, Ontario is celebrating local agri-food organizations, processors, youth, women, primary producers, Northern businesses, Indigenous businesses and communities, and agri-food businesses whose innovations are paving the way towards a more sustainable and lucrative agriculture and food industry.

Applications will be accepted until September 14, 2023. See HERE

Winners will be announced in November at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.