What changes for residents: farmers, processors, organizations and agri-businesses can submit nominations — including self-nominations — for the 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards through Sept. 4. The awards aim to highlight leaders that contribute to Ontario’s agri-food sector, which the province values at about $53 billion.
Who is eligible and how to apply
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness has opened the nomination period for the annual awards. Individuals, companies, industry organizations and community groups may be nominated, and self-nominations are accepted. Nominations are filed online at ontario.ca/excellenceinagriculture.
“The success of Ontario’s agri-food sector is driven by the passion, innovation and hard work of farmers, processors, organizations and businesses across the province,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness.
Categories and focus
This year’s program covers a range of areas intended to reflect both traditional and emerging parts of the sector. The province will present awards in 10 categories, including research, agribusiness, education, urban agriculture and recognition for Indigenous- and women-led operations.
- Research and Innovation Excellence
- Agribusiness Excellence
- Education Excellence
- Promotional Excellence
- Urban Agriculture Excellence
- Northern Business Excellence
- Indigenous, Métis or Inuit-Owned Business or Community Group Excellence
- Women’s Farming Excellence
- Youth Excellence
- Farm Family Excellence
Local context and implications
For producers and businesses in the region, recognition through a provincial award can raise visibility with buyers, processors and supply-chain partners. The awards are presented as part of the province’s Grow Ontario Strategy, which aims to promote locally grown and made food and to emphasize the economic contributions of the sector.
Residents and business owners planning to nominate must meet the submission deadline; entries received after Sept. 4 will not be considered. The ministry’s online portal provides nomination forms and details about eligibility and judging criteria.
| Deadline | Number of categories | Sector value (provincewide) |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 4 | 10 | $53 billion |
The ministry says the awards will celebrate achievements that help keep the province competitive and support economic growth. Organizers encourage nominations from across the province, including operations of all sizes and those that contribute to food independence and innovation in production and processing.
For more information and to submit a nomination, visit ontario.ca/excellenceinagriculture.
