The value of networking and attending industry events for HESIC

This month, we hear from Alberto Hardt and Gabriela Torrens, Research Associates with the Horticultural & Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre.

From February 21-22, Niagara College’s (NC) Horticultural & Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) team participated in the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention (OFVC), in Niagara Falls, Ont. This year brought another opportunity to represent NC’s Research & Innovation (R&I) division with a dedicated booth at the event, showcasing our successful work evaluating innovations and running trials as the No. 1 research college in Canada .

"For the HESIC team, having a booth at OFVC represents a unique opportunity to leave a lasting impression, highlight our research endeavors, share success stories with industry partners, and foster new potential collaborations.” – Alberto Hardt , Research Associate, Horticultural & Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre

OFVC stands out as the largest tradeshow in Ontario for the horticulture sector, providing a crucial opportunity to engage directly with numerous industry players. With over 340 exhibitors from all parts of Ontario, alongside representatives from Quebec, B.C., and other provinces, the event is a melting pot of networking and product showcases. Over these two days, what truly sets OFVC apart are the sessions featuring more than 100 speakers who share their wisdom in 10 different event rooms.

Among the speakers were representatives from governmental organizations such as the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and LCBO, Canadian and American universities, private companies, farmers, professors, researchers, and marketing experts. Their discussions spanned a wide array of topics — from production processes and industry challenges to legislation, trends, technology, and strategies for business growth.

For HESIC, participating as exhibitors for the third consecutive year post-pandemic proved to be an invaluable experience. It serves as a window into the dynamic world of horticulture, a market predicted to reach USD 40.24 billion globally by 2026 . Recognizing the significance of the event, R&I expanded its presence to include not only the HESIC, but also the Business & Commercialization Innovation Centre (BCIC) in the booth — a decision driven by the understanding that many small- and medium-sized businesses in the horticulture sector, seeking to comprehend their market niches and develop effective business strategies, could benefit from BCIC’s insights and research-driven guidance. Notably, many partners who have collaborated with HESIC also engage with BCIC, benefitting from improving their business from both a technical and marketing perspective.

For the HESIC team, having a booth at OFVC represents a unique opportunity to leave a lasting impression, highlight our research endeavours, share success stories with industry partners, and foster new potential collaborations. Our participation in the convention is key to solidifying our image not merely as a service provider for this sector, but as a trustworthy organization driving innovation for the horticultural industry.

Interested in learning more about HESIC and how they can support your horticultural business?

Explore HESIC’s website, or contact David DiPietro, Manager, Business Development, at [email protected].