Nine students awarded $45,000 to advance agri-food innovation.
Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO), the province’s largest commodity organization representing 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers, has announced the nine recipients of its 2025 Legacy Scholarship.
Each student will receive $5,000 to support their studies at accredited post-secondary institutions, marking another milestone in GFO’s mission to strengthen Ontario’s grain and agri-food sectors through education.
Now in its fourth year, the Legacy Scholarship program was created to encourage academic pursuits that directly or indirectly benefit the grain industry. Past recipients have studied in fields ranging from Communications and Engineering to Economics and Agriculture—areas critical to the evolving needs of modern farming and food production.
“Grain Farmers of Ontario is dedicated to championing the success of our agricultural community members, extending our support to students looking to make a difference in Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food industries,” commented Jeff Harrison, Chair, Grain Farmers of Ontario.
“We were amazed by the exceptional quality of the applications we received and know that the students selected can make significant contributions to the industry,” said Harrison.
Who Are the 2025 Recipients?
This year’s nine scholarship winners were chosen from more than 70 applicants, reflecting the growing interest among students in careers that intersect with agriculture, technology, and sustainability. The recipients include:
- Reegan Charlton, University of Saskatchewan—Bachelor of Science in Agriculture;
- Ian Egger, University of Guelph—Bachelor of Science in Agriculture;
- Logan Ettles, Osgoode Hall Law School, York University—Juris Doctor;
- Benjamin Fluttert, University of Guelph—Bachelor of Science in Agriculture;
- Colton Hawkins, University of Guelph—Biomedical Engineering;
- Siddharthan Lakshmanan, University of Ottawa—Master of Science, Biology;
- Evan Mayer, University of Guelph—Doctor of Philosophy, Environmental Science;
- Peyton Nailor, University of Guelph—Bachelor of Science in Agriculture;
- Joy Roasa, University of Guelph—Doctor of Philosophy, Food Science.
These students represent a broad spectrum of expertise—from crop science and environmental research to food safety and even legal frameworks that govern agricultural practices. Their work will help address challenges such as climate resilience, sustainable production, and regulatory compliance—issues that impact not only farmers but also the entire agri-food supply chain.
Why It Matters for Ontario’s Grain Sector
Ontario’s grain industry is a cornerstone of the provincial economy, covering more than six million acres of farmland and generating $4.1 billion in production value annually.
The sector contributes over $27 billion in economic output and supports more than 90,000 jobs.
As global markets shift and environmental pressures mount, the need for skilled professionals who can innovate and adapt has never been greater.
Programs like the Legacy Scholarship ensure that the next generation of leaders is equipped to tackle these challenges.
Whether through advanced research in crop genetics, engineering solutions for farm equipment, or legal expertise in trade and sustainability, these students will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of agriculture.
The Legacy Fund: A Long-Term Vision
The scholarship is funded through the Grain Farmers of Ontario Legacy Fund, a resource created when regulatory changes allowed the transition of the former wheat marketing fund into a broader investment vehicle.
This fund represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for GFO to reinvest in the sector, supporting initiatives that drive innovation, education, and long-term growth.
Applications for the 2026 Legacy Scholarship will open in summer 2026. For students passionate about agriculture, food science, or related fields, this program offers not only financial support but also a connection to one of Ontario’s most influential agricultural organizations.
Grain Farmers of Ontario represents 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers across the province. These crops cover more than six million acres, generate $4.1 billion in production value, and contribute over $27 billion to Ontario’s economy, supporting more than 90,000 jobs.
More information at https://gfo.ca/.