OLDS — Now that AgSmart 2025 is in the books, planning is already underway for next year’s edition.
The Agri-Trade Equipment Expo Group's educational agriculture expo, was held this year from July 29 to 31 at Olds College.
AgSmart 2025 reinforced Olds College’s leadership in applied agricultural research and technology.
As the host, the college integrated its Smart Farm infrastructure and faculty expertise into many of the field demonstrations and sessions.
The show featured a wide array industry expert speakers, providing education on the latest in agricultural technology, including several hands-on learning opportunities.
Hundreds of producers, agri-business professionals, educators, and innovators from across the country and beyond attended the event, which featured more than 86 exhibitors, 41educational sessions, live field demonstrations, and immersive experiences.
Attendees learned about the latest in smart farming solutions, digital agriculture, autonomous equipment, and sustainability practices.
“AgSmart 2025 was our most dynamic event yet,” AgSmart show manager Tracy Gardner is quoted as saying in a news release.
“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:
- The first-ever youth in ag tech challenge, in which high school students from across Alberta pitched smart ag solutions and showcased prototypes,
- An expanded drone and autonomous technology zone, with live demonstrations of UAV spraying systems, autonomous tractors, and sensor-driven monitoring,
- AgSmart Learning Labs, which gave attendees a opportunities to do deep dives into data-driven decision-making, regenerative agriculture, and on-farm connectivity,
- 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.
“This event aligns perfectly with our mission to accelerate innovation in agriculture,” Todd Ormann, vice-president of external relationships & research at Olds College, is quoted as saying in the release.
“AgSmart is not just a show, it’s a platform for collaboration, experimentation, and future-proofing Canadian ag.”
Shelly Flint, CEO of Westerner Park in Red Deer is also quoted as having high praise for the event.
“AgSmart is an essential hub for collaboration and innovation within the agriculture sector,” she’s quoted as saying.
“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.”
