AALP is an executive development program for those who want to broaden their horizons and help shape the future of agriculture and food in Ontario.
AALP is administered by the Rural Ontario Institute based in Guelph, Ontario.
08/20/2026
Thank you, Bayer Crop Science Canada! Your support of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) is helping shape the future of Ontario’s -food and sectors and strengthening the leaders who drive them.
Want to support future leaders or get involved yourself? Find out how at https://www.ruralontarioinstitute.ca/aalp/
08/19/2026
A team of AALP Class 21 participants is working with the Rural Ontario Institute to better understand what influences primary producers’ decisions to participate in AALP and how future participation can be supported.
If you are a primary producer who has taken part in AALP, expressed interest, or been encouraged to apply, please consider completing our brief survey. Your feedback will help inform future opportunities for primary producers in the program.
If you are a primary producer who has completed AALP, please use the following survey link: https://forms.gle/JusSsRJb55T4HZvC7
If you are a primary producer who has not completed AALP but has been interested in taking part in the program, please use the following survey link: https://forms.gle/ekDvbErfh53oBy5a9
08/18/2026
Join us at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show on September 15th from 1:30-3:30 PM, for the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) Alumni Reunion.
Reconnect with fellow AALP alumni, program facilitators, and friends as we celebrate shared experiences and lasting connections. Everyone is welcome—Whether you’re a proud graduate or simply curious about the AALP journey. Come celebrate Ag leadership!
Please RSVP for this event by visiting https://bit.ly/4aKXs30
08/17/2026
Win a two-night getaway for four at Walnut Acres Farm B&B in Watford, Ontario!
Enjoy 45 hectares of woodlot trails, wetlands, pollinator habitats, fireside stargazing, a deluxe charcuterie and beverage tasting experience, and a delicious breakfast.
Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $20.
Please email Breckyn Caers at [email protected] to purchase tickets.
Draw takes place September 15, 2026, at 2:45 p.m. during the AALP Alumni Reunion at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show.
Lottery License: M550245
Thank you to AALP Class 15 for generously donating this prize. Proceeds support the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program and the Rural Ontario Institute.
🌟Meet the leaders of AALP Class 21!🌱
Introducing Alicia Becker from Clifford, Ontario. Alicia Becker works as the Community Engagement Manager for Farm & Food Care Ontario. With over a decade of experience in strategic fundraising and relationship development she specializes in the leadership of cross-sector partnerships and collaborative campaigns that foster understanding and build trust for agriculture and Food in Ontario. Alicia also serves as the chair of Beautification for the Clifford Connects Committee, a community-led movement dedicated to revitalizing the town through events, beautification, and promotion.
If you’re ready to grow beyond your current role and play a meaningful part in shaping the future of Ontario’s agri-food sector, sign up to be notified when recruitment for AALP Class 22 opens in fall 2026.➡️ https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/5n7J4FHvnv
08/14/2026
A little glimpse of the green adventures waiting in Ireland! ☘️
From beautiful parks and historic landmarks to Irish farms and new friendships, the 4-H Canada International Exchange will be filled with unforgettable experiences.
4-H Ontario has six spots available for youth ages 17–21.
📅 Dates: May 14–21, 2027
Travel dates may vary by approximately one day depending on available flight paths.
💰 Cost: $2,000 CAD, plus flights, travel insurance and additional spending money for souvenirs and other personal expenses.
👥 Open to 4-H youth ages 17–21
⏰ Apply by August 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Your Irish adventure could start here! APPLY: https://4-hontario.ca/youth/exchanges/
🌟Meet the leaders of AALP Class 21!🌱
Introducing Michael Baurn from Georgetown, Ontario. Mike is the Director of Finance for the Egg Farmers of Ontario, where he leads financial strategy with a focus on long-term growth and sustainability. Michael is eager to continue learning and growing within the industry and is passionate about aligning financial leadership with operational excellence.
If you’re ready to grow beyond your current role and play a meaningful part in shaping the future of Ontario’s agri-food sector, sign up to be notified when recruitment for AALP Class 22 opens in the fall 2026. ➡️ https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/5n7J4FHvnv
08/13/2026
2026 AALP Dream Gala Funds Leadership Programming
According to the Rural Ontario Institute, the 2026 AALP Dream Gala raised more than $110,000 to support leadership development in Ontario’s agri-food sector.
Read more about how the Dream Gala supports the next generation of agriculture leaders ⏬
https://www.farms.com/ag-industry-news/aalp-dream-gala-tops-110-000-for-leadership-programming-628.aspx
08/13/2026
Thank you, Weston Family Foundation! Your support of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) is helping shape the future of Ontario’s -food and sectors and strengthening the leaders who drive them.
Want to support future leaders or get involved yourself? Find out how at https://www.ruralontarioinstitute.ca/aalp/