Image
Image

A partnership with the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies (AAAS) & Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS).

Application Deadline: November 30, 2026 @ 4:00pm.

The AAAS-OAAS Annual Convention Young Professionals Exchange Program provides up to ten (10) Alberta young professionals involved in agricultural societies in Alberta the opportunity to attend the partner province’s annual convention.

This program fosters learning, networking, and collaboration between agricultural societies in Alberta and Ontario. Selected applicants will receive registration to the OAAS convention and accommodations for four nights to be shared with another delegate.

Meals for the convention are provided (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Thursday, Friday, Saturday).

Selected applicants are responsible for the cost of all transportation and any additional meals and expenses (alcohol is not included).

Transportation costs are eligible for the leadership portion of the annual grant if your Ag Society picks up the cost of travel.

The OAAS Convention dates for 2027 are February 18-20, 2027 at the Sheraton Parkway Hotel, Toronto North.

Eligibility:

  • Must be a member of an Alberta Agricultural Society that is in good standing.
  • Must be an active member of an agricultural society in Alberta.
  • Must be between the ages of 18 and 40. Must be available to attend the entire OAAS convention.
  • Must commit to attend the AAAS convention the same year.
  • Applications can participate a maximum of 2 years.
About the Building Community Leaders Program: The BCL program is a leadership and governance training initiative designed specifically for organizations connected to agricultural societies, rural communities, and the agri‑business sector. It focuses on strengthening leadership capacity, improving governance practices, enhancing communication and decision‑making skills, and supporting volunteers and boards in building sustainable, confident, and effective organizations.
Participants gain practical tools, guided learning, and access to resources that help them apply strong leadership principles directly within their societies. The program also includes hands‑on activities, peer learning, and access to the online graduate forum for continued development.
All costs for the workshop, the hotel accommodations for Tuesday and Wednesday, along with all meals on Wednesday and breakfast and lunch on Thursday will be covered.

Applicant's Information

Applicant's Name(Required)
Applicant's Address(Required)
Applicant's Email Address(Required)
Are you interested in attending the Building Community Leaders Training on February 17 & 18. (Wednesday & Thursday)(Required)

Application Agreement:

By submitting this application, I confirm that: I meet the eligibility requirements of the AAAS-OAAS Annual Young Professionals Convention Exchange Program. I am available to attend the full duration of the OAAS and the AAAS convention. If selected, I will actively participate in conference events and share my experiences with my home agricultural society/Region/AAAS. If selected, I understand the financial costs I am responsible for. I understand I am attending as a representative of AAAS and my home agricultural society. I agree to abide by all program guidelines and expectations.
Applicant Signature(Required)