Operation Grow, an innovative social enterprise that is centered around a hydroponic vertical farm and focuses on empowering women facing the challenges of poverty and trauma, has been awarded the prestigious Excellence in Agriculture Award in the Workforce category. This recognition celebrates Operation Grow’s transformative work in creating employment opportunities, fostering self-agency, and improving the lives of women in agriculture and related sectors.
The Excellence in Agriculture Awards, presented annually by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food
and Agribusiness, celebrate the most innovative and impactful initiatives across various facets
of the agricultural sector. The Workforce category specifically honors organizations that provide tangible career development opportunities, while addressing the social and economic barriers
that individuals face in the agricultural industry.
Operation Grow was recognized for its innovative approach to workforce development, which
not only focuses on employability skills but also provides crucial support for women who have experienced violence, social isolation, food insecurity, and the impacts of trauma. Through a
blend of community-based programs, mentorship, and hands-on agricultural training, Operation
Grow is helping women reclaim their confidence, build their careers, and achieve greater economic independence. Operation Grow was one of two award winners from Simcoe County. Sheldon Creek Dairy also won in the Supply Chain Category.
“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition,” said Haily MacDonald, Executive Director
of Operation Grow. “The vision for Operation Grow comes directly from the women we serve.
Through focus groups and feedback, it became clear that women wanted more than just employment opportunities—they wanted stability, confidence, and a path forward from gender-based trauma. This award highlights the power of empowering women through meaningful work
in the agricultural sector.”
Since its inception in 2015, Operation Grow has been at the forefront of addressing critical
social issues that affect women in agricultural communities, such as social isolation, poverty,
and lack of access to food. The organization’s business model aims to break these cycles by
offering women not just jobs, but opportunities to build community, increase food security, and
gain long-term career stability
