Local businesses have been given honours, part of the 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Awards from Ontario. Local winners and honourable mentions are: Drone Spray Canada in Blenheim has been named the recipient of the Minister’s Award and the award for Research and Innovation Excellence. “Drone Spray Canada is incredibly honoured to receive this award for our involvement in bringing a new and innovative technology to agriculture,” said Drone Spray Canada. “It has been many years working with countless stakeholders to ensure we can integrate drones into our agricultural practices. This allows growers to increase efficacy, decrease costs and ultimately generate better products. We are excited to continue to see this industry take-off.” The awards are given to businesses, farmers, and organizations that help protect and strengthen Ontario’s agri-food sector. They honour seven winners and six honourable mentions. “The workers and innovators in Ontario’s agri-food sector are second to none, using world-class expertise and experience to bring fresh, nutritious and delicious food to tables across the province,” said Sam Oosterhoff, Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Agribusiness. “These awards are a celebration of Ontario’s rich, multigenerational agricultural heritage being carried forward by the leaders of today, with a commitment to building a more secure and self-reliant agri-food sector for generations to come.” In addition to the award announcements, Ontario also said it will be investing $2.3 million over the next three years in 4-H Ontario. 4-H offers youth engagement programs, preparing them to become agricultural leaders. This investment will help strengthen the skilled workforce and ensure long-term growth, competitiveness, and resilience in the agri-food sector, the province said. “4-H Ontario is very appreciative of the continued support received from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness,” said Evelyn Chambers, Acting Executive Director, 4-H Ontario. “This funding will allow 4-H to continue to deliver opportunities for Ontario youth and develop the next workforce generation.”
