The 2026 North American Maple Syrup Council Conference is flowing into Sault Ste. Marie from Oct. 21 to 23.
A $75,000 investment from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario will assist the Rural Agri-Innovation Network, the Algoma Maple Syrup Producers’ Association, and the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre to deliver the international event.
Why it matters: This is the first time Northern Ontario will host the conference and only the second time Canada will host it, despite being the world’s largest producer of maple syrup.
“We are very excited to help bring this wonderful event to Northern Ontario, a leader in maple syrup production,” said David Thompson, vice-president of programs at the Rural Agri-Innovation Network.
The investment, he said, will “foster a successful and resilient agri-food sector, helping us develop local opportunities in maple syrup and other agricultural sectors alongside the expertise that turns those opportunities into reality.”
Old taps in a log created an artistic backdrop at Grand Maple Farm’s vendor booth during a DufferinFarm tour. Photo: Diana Martin
The three-day event will feature local operation tours, including Ontario’s largest maple syrup producer, presentations by research and industry experts, a tradeshow and the Taste of Algoma Dinner with a locally inspired menu.
“Maple syrup isn’t just a Canadian staple — it’s part of who we are and a vital economic driver for our region and country,” said Patty Hajdu, minister responsible for FedNor. “In a rapidly changing world, we’re focused on what we can control: building resilient local communities and supporting Canadian-made excellence.”
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