AgSmart 2025 Showcases Agricultural Innovation and Education

AgSmart 2025 wrapped up another year, delivering a showcase of industry expert speakers, agricultural technology, education, and hands-on learning that has firmly positioned the event as a must-attend on the Canadian ag calendar. Held at Olds College Agriculture & Technology, the two-and-a-half-day event attracted hundreds of producers, agri-business professionals, educators, and innovators from across the country and beyond.

This year’s AgSmart included over 86 exhibitors, 41educational sessions, live field demonstrations, and immersive experiences that highlighted the latest in smart farming solutions, digital agriculture, autonomous equipment, and sustainability practices.

“AgSmart 2025 was our most dynamic event yet,” said Tracy Gardner, Show Manager for AgSmart. “Producers are hungry for knowledge and tools that can make their operations more efficient, productive, and sustainable. The energy this year as we moved into campus was incredible—we saw meaningful conversations, real-time demonstrations, and partnerships forming right on the grounds.”

Key highlights from AgSmart 2025 included:

• Expanded Drone & Autonomous Technology Zone, with live demos of UAV spraying systems, autonomous tractors, and sensor-driven monitoring.
• AgSmart Learning Labs, which offered deep dives into data-driven decision-making, regenerative agriculture, and on-farm connectivity.
• First-ever Youth in Ag Tech Challenge, bringing high school students from across Alberta to prototype and pitch smart ag solutions.
• Strong representation from ag-tech startups, post-secondary institutions, and research organizations showcasing cutting-edge developments.

Partners in attendance praised the event’s practical, revised format. “AgSmart is an essential hub for collaboration and innovation within the agriculture sector,” said Shelly Flint, CEO of Westerner Park. “As a partner, we’re proud to showcase an event that brings together producers, researchers, and technology developers in a truly practical, hands-on setting. It’s the meaningful conversations and real-world connections made here that drive the future of agriculture forward”

“AgSmart is a prime example of what happens when we bring the right people together in the right setting,” said Mike Szyszka, Interim CEO of the Red Deer District Chamber. “This event isn’t just about showcasing new tools and tech. It’s about building relationships, sharing ideas, and strengthening the backbone of our regional economy. AgSmart is a natural fit under the Agri-Trade banner, and we’re excited to see these two powerhouse platforms working together to strengthen Alberta’s ag sector."

AgSmart 2025 also reinforced Olds College’s leadership in applied agricultural research and technology. As the host, Olds College integrated its Smart Farm infrastructure and faculty expertise into many of the field demos and sessions.

“This event aligns perfectly with our mission to accelerate innovation in agriculture,” said Todd Ormann, Vice President of External Relationships & Research, Olds College. “AgSmart is not just a show—it’s a platform for collaboration, experimentation, and future-proofing Canadian ag.”

As planning begins for AgSmart 2026, the bar is set even higher. Organizers invite feedback and collaboration to continue shaping the future of agriculture—smartly.