Rural Ontario Institute | Media Centre | 2026 AALP Dream Gala Raises Over $110,000 for Ontario’s Agriculture Leaders

2026 AALP Dream Gala Raises Over $110,000 for Ontario’s Agriculture Leaders

Date: August 11, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GUELPH, August 11, 2026 – The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) is pleased to report that the 2026 Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) Dream Gala generated more than $110,000 in fundraising support for Ontario’s agri-food leaders.

AALP was established in 1984, through the work of four partners – the University of Guelph, Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Foundation for Rural Living. The program was created for those who want to broaden their horizons and help shape the future of the agri-food sector in Ontario. Since 2010, AALP has been delivered by the Rural Ontario Institute.

The AALP Dream Gala is a biennial fundraiser event hosted by recent program graduates in support of ROI and AALP, with a special focus on the current class. This year, AALP Classes 20 and 21 welcomed guests to A Night at the Races at The GrandWay Events Centre in Elora. The evening featured live and silent auctions showcasing a variety of unique items and distinctive experiences, as well as raffle draws and exciting horse racing entertainment.