Vermont Business Magazine Nominations are now open for the 2026 Vermont Agricultural Hall of Fame! Nominations can be made electronically through www.VTAgHallOfFame.org. Nominations will be accepted in three categories: Emerging Leaders, Ag Innovators, and The Lifetime Achievement Award. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, March 20th, 2026 at 5 pm.
With over 100 Vermonter’s recognized in the last 24 years, the Vermont Agricultural Hall of Fame is ready to accept your thoughtful, high quality nominations for 2026. All are welcome to submit a nomination of Vermont’s farmers, producers and people dedicated to supporting the landscape we share. Please note that prior year nominations do not carry over; if your nomination was not selected in past years, please resubmit your nomination.
Any person who is or has significantly contributing to farming in Vermont – whether they own or work on a farm or provide direct support, is qualified for nomination. Individuals, partners, families and collectives – including members of the farmworker community – are eligible.
Inductees will be honored at the annual luncheon hosted during the Champlain Valley Fair in late summer.
The three categories are as defined:
Emerging Leader: This category highlights those who are stepping up to become the next generation of agricultural leaders in Vermont. Age 40 or younger (born after January 1, 1986), these individuals demonstrate a deep commitment to Vermont’s working landscape and are poised to lead our Ag community into the future. They are remarkable for their service, youthful energy, and dedication to Vermont agriculture.
Ag Innovator: Those in consideration for this category have demonstrated a fresh and forward-thinking approach to agriculture. They are making or have made a significant, positive impact on Vermont, in areas such as but not limited to: growing the local economy, promoting stewardship and conservation, improving community health and nutrition, developing new tools and practices, and using alternative models in business and land ownership. They are notable for their unique perspective and unconventional approach. (Age is not a factor for consideration in this category.)
Lifetime Achievement: This category recognizes those who have made a significant contribution to the advancement, improvement, or development of Vermont agriculture over the course of their long career. Nominees shall have played an active role in Vermont agriculture for at least thirty years.
To make a nomination for the 2026 Vermont Agricultural Hall of Fame visit the website at www.vtaghalloffame.org. The nomination form is available electronically or to print.
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About the Champlain Valley Exposition
The Champlain Valley Exposition is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization with a mission of serving the people of Vermont and the region by promoting agriculture, education, arts and culture, commerce and entertainment activities. Since 2002, the Expo has hosted the Vermont Agricultural Hall of Fame, which honors those who’ve made or are making a significant contribution to our beautiful state.
2.11.2026. Essex Junction, VT – Champlain Valley Exposition