- BUILDING BRIDGES AND BEYOND: A MESSAGE FROM JENN MACTAVISH
- ATII PROGRAM SUCCESS STORY, VEGFRESH INC
- AAC VIBE CODING WORKSHOP
- REGISTER FOR AGTECH BREAKFAST AT CANADA'S OUTDOOR FARM SHOW
- 2026 EXCELLENCE IN AGRICULTURE AWARDS
- AAC OPEN PROGRAMS
- SEPTEMBER AGRIFOOD EVENTS
| | BUILDING BRIDGES AND BEYOND: JENN MACTAVISH | | |
Most of our summer has gone into planning for the year ahead. New projects, new partnerships, and some honest thinking about where AAC is most useful. Not everything is settled yet, but there's enough to share.
The one I'm looking forward to most is the vibe-coding workshop next month. AI is on a lot of minds right now, and for good reason. Most of the conversation is still about what AI might do, though, rather than what you can build with it. This workshop covers both. How the tools can make you more productive, and how to build the applications yourself. I'm curious to see what people come up with.
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This month AAC entered a new partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. Together we're coordinating a roundtable this fall that brings agri-food leaders together to talk about the sector as a source of stability, strength and growth for Ontario and beyond. Topics include precision agriculture, advanced manufacturing in agri-food, and dual-use infrastructure. It's a smaller, invitation-only session, but we'll share what comes out of it. It's also a practical way to move Agri-Food 2050 forward.
We're also sponsoring the AgTech Breakfast at Canada's Outdoor Farm Show. It brings together farmers, researchers, food-tech entrepreneurs and others working on new technology and the on-farm problems it's meant to solve. The registration link is in this issue if you'd like to join us.
That's a snapshot of what's ahead. There will be more this fall. If you have questions about any of it, please reach out.
-Jenn
| | HOW AG-TECH PROGRAM INVESTMENTS ARE STRENGTHENING ONTARIO FOOD PROCESSORS | | |
Innovation can be a game-changer for Ontario’s agri-food businesses, but investing in new technology can be a significant undertaking.
For Vegfresh Inc., support through the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative (ATII), delivered by the AAC, helped turn an ambitious technology investment into reality. A $100,000 grant helped the Toronto-based food processor install an advanced optical sorting system, improving production, consistency and food recovery while helping employees move into higher-value roles.
The results? Production increased by approximately 15 per cent, peak-period throughput rose by nearly 30 per cent, and Vegfresh is better positioned to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
Discover how AAC support helped Vegfresh modernize its operation – and how strategic investments in innovation are strengthening Ontario’s food supply chain.
| | | AAC WORKSHOP: AI LEADERSHIP FOR AGRI-FOOD PROFESSIONALS | | |
AI Skills for Every Role: Who Should Attend AAC’s AI Leadership Workshop?
AI adoption is changing how organizations communicate, serve members, analyze information, and improve everyday operations.
AAC’s AI Leadership for Agri-Food Association Professionals workshop, presented with AI expert Jesse Hirsh of Metaviews, is designed to help agri-food professionals understand AI fundamentals, navigate ethical considerations, and gain practical skills they can apply immediately. Through two interactive virtual sessions, participants will explore real-world AI applications for agri-food organizations and learn how to use vibe coding to create customized tools and workflows using natural language – without traditional programming experience.
This workshop is ideal for communications, marketing, member services, policy, events, operations, finance professionals, and executive leaders who want to build confidence with AI and explore responsible ways to improve their organization’s work. No technical background is required, and participants will receive two months of post-workshop support to help turn ideas into action.
This workshop will be hosted in two 1.5 hour sessions and includes two months of post-workshop support.
AI Leadership for Agri-Food Association Professionals workshop dates:
- September 17, 2026
- September 24, 2026
Cost: $800+HST per participant ($400+HST for AAC members)
Hurry! AAC’s AI Leadership for Agri-Food Association Professionals workshop is only two weeks away
Contact info@adpaptcouncil.org for more information.
| | CONNECT WITH ONTARIO'S AG TECH LEADERS AT CANADA'S OUTDOOR FARM SHOW | | |
What’s next for agriculture?
Join AAC at the Ag Tech Breakfast at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show – September 16th at 8:30 am to explore the technologies, ideas and investments shaping the future of Ontario agriculture.
As an event sponsor, AAC is proud to bring producers, innovators, researchers and industry leaders together for conversations about innovation and technology adoption – key drivers of a more resilient, competitive and future-ready agri-food sector.
Whether you’re looking to discover emerging technologies, exchange ideas or connect with others working to advance Ontario agriculture, the Ag Tech Breakfast is a great opportunity to be part of the conversation.
Don’t miss out: register now and join us at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show.
| | 2026 EXCELLENCE IN AGRICULTURE AWARDS | | |
Ontario’s agriculture and food sector is powered by people and businesses making a difference through innovation, leadership and excellence.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards, recognizing outstanding farmers, food processors, businesses and industry organizations across the province. With categories celebrating research and innovation, agribusiness, youth, women in farming, farm families and more, there are many ways to recognize those helping shape Ontario’s world-class agri-food sector.
Know someone who deserves to be recognized? Submit a nomination by September 4, 2026.
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AAC programs supporting Ontario’s agri-food sector – apply now!
AAC programs are designed to help Ontario’s agri-food sector respond to opportunities and challenges – from advancing innovative products into new markets to strengthening access to veterinary care in underserved communities.
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Rapid Response to Business Development Initiative
For Ontario agriculture, agri-food and agri-products businesses with an established market opportunity, the Rapid Response to Business Development Initiative (RRBDI) provides up to $10,000 to help move innovative products, processes and technologies close sales.
Administered by AAC, the initiative supports eligible businesses that need to act quickly to pursue promising business opportunities and build on established connections.
The 2026–2027 intake is now open and will remain open until all available funding has been allocated or March 1, 2027.
Learn more about RRBDI, eligibility and how to apply: Rapid Response to Business Development Initiative
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Veterinary Incentive Program
The Province of Ontario is helping strengthen veterinary services in Ontario’s underserved communities.
The Veterinary Incentive Program (VIP) offers newly licensed veterinarians who provide food-animal services in eligible underserviced areas up to $50,000 over five years. The program is designed to encourage veterinarians to practice in communities, including Northern Ontario, where producers face veterinary access challenges.
The VIP program is open until March 31, 2032.
Learn more about VIP and eligibility requirements: Veterinary Incentive Program
| | UPCOMING ONTARIO AGRI-FOOD EVENTS | | |
Annual Golf Tournament and
Town Hall
September 17
Lionhead Golf Club & Conference Centre, 8525 Mississauga Rd. Brampton
Join FBO annual Golf Tournament and Town Hall where CEO, Chris Conway, will provide updates on ongoing work with the Province and Food and Beverage Canada. It will be followed by and panel session with a Q&A session.
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AALP Reunion at Canada's Outdoor Farm Show
September 15, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Special Events Tent
Canada's Outdoor Farm Show, Woodstock
Reconnect with fellow Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) alumni, program facilitators, and friends as we celebrate shared experiences and lasting connections. Everyone is welcome – Come celebrate Ag leadership!
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International Plowing Match
September 22-26,
51 Durham Rd, Walkerton
The International Plowing Match and Rural Expo (IPM) is a five-day celebration of agriculture and rural living. There are plowing competitions, a range of activities for people of all ages, numerous opportunities to learn about agriculture, near-constant live entertainment in multiple Match venues. There are also hundreds of vendors and exhibitors including large and small equipment, lifestyle items and much more.
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Breakfast on the Farm
September 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
River Valley Cattle Co., Newburgh
At Breakfast on the Farm, you’ll enjoy a delicious, farm-fresh breakfast and get a behind-the-scenes look at how food is grown and raised right here in Ontario. Hosted by the Embury family and Farm & Food Care Ontario, this event offers a unique opportunity for kids and adults alike to explore the exciting world of modern agriculture.
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