Western Fair Association Recognized for Excellence in Ontario Agribusiness
LONDON, ONTARIO — November 9, 2026: Western Fair Association has been recognized by the Government of Ontario with a 2026 Excellence in Agriculture Award in the Agribusiness Excellence category. Presented by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, the awards recognize and encourage outstanding efforts that drive the agriculture and food sector forward and raise awareness of its impact on the provincial economy.
For nearly 160 years, agriculture has been at the heart of Western Fair Association. Today, that commitment extends well beyond its signature annual Fair, with year-round programs, facilities and partnerships that help Ontario food businesses start, grow, and succeed.
At the centre of this work is The Grove at Wewstern Fair District, an agri-business hub that helps food entrepreneurs move from an idea to commercial production and access markets. Through commercial incubator kitchens, dedicated production spaces, business development partnerships, and connections to The Market, The Grove provides a pathway for emerging food businesses to grow.
The Grove has supported more than 70 businesses through its incubation kitchens and welcomed 18 tenants, helping entrepreneurs access the infrastructure, expertise, and connections needed to bring their products to market.
"This recognition is a reflection of what can happen when we bring people, ideas, and resources together around a shared purpose," said Reg Ash, CEO of Western Fair Association. "Agriculture has always been part of who we are, but our role continues to evolve. We're proud to help entrepreneurs turn great ideas into growing businesses, connect farmers with new technologies, and build partnerships that strengthen Ontario's food economy. This award belongs to the many businesses, partners, and people helping make that possible."
The Association's commitment to agricultural innovation continues to grow. In May 2026, the Government of Canada announced an additional $8 million investment in Grove 2.0, which will expand production capacity and add cold storage to help more Ontario food and beverage businesses scale and reach new markets.
Beyond The Grove, Western Fair Association supports agricultural innovation through Innovation Farms Ontario and the AgRobotics Working Group, connecting farmers, researchers, and technology companies to test and advance practical solutions on working farms. The Association also brings industry and community together through the London Farm Show, the National Poultry Show, The Market, and the annual Western Fair.
As a not-for-profit agricultural society, Western Fair Association reinvests in programs, facilities, and programming that support local businesses, create opportunities, and strengthen the communities it serves.
About Western Fair Association
Western Fair Association is a leading year-round, not-for-profit agricultural society located in London, Ontario. Since 1867, the Association has brought people together through agriculture, entertainment, business, and community experiences. Through Western Fair District, its signature annual Western Fair, The Grove, The Market, agricultural trade shows and innovation initiatives, the Association creates experiences and opportunities that connect and enrich the region.
