By Maggie Edwards

The Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) is seeking nominations for its annual awards program, while accepting applications for an inaugural innovation contest. 

Nominations are due Nov. 1. Winners will be honored in February during the AFVGA Annual Conference in Gulf Shores. View awards here.

Annual awards include: 

• AFVGA Partner of the Year: Presented to an individual or company whose exceptional contributions have significantly elevated the association and the horticulture industry. This honor recognizes those who have gone above and beyond to support and advance the collective goals, driving innovation and growth.

• AFVGA Service to Horticulture: Awarded to an individual from a university, Extension service or government agency who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to the promotion, research, education, training and service of the horticulture industry. This award celebrates those who have made significant impacts through their unwavering commitment and expertise. 

• AFVGA Exceptional Achievement Award: The highest honor bestowed by the association, this award recognizes an individual, family or partnership engaged in horticultural farming. It acknowledges those involved in marketing, environmental stewardship or agritourism who derive a portion of their income from farm-related ventures. The AFVGA Exceptional Achievement Award is presented to those who have persevered through adversity, whether due to weather, crop loss or other uncontrollable challenges, and have succeeded in producing outstanding results. This honors those who go the extra mile for their family, friends, community and industry.

New this year is the Grow Forward Award sponsored by First South Farm Credit. 

Competition finalists will be invited to pitch their ideas live in a dynamic, Shark Tank-style session at the AFVGA Annual Conference in February. A panel of industry judges will select the recipient based on the strength of their vision, execution and potential for positive change. The winner will receive $5,000. 

The AFVGA Grow Forward Award will honor Alabama fruit and vegetable growers who are shaping the future of specialty crop production through bold ideas, strategic thinking and strong leadership, said AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton. 

“This award highlights both established producers introducing fresh innovations on their farms and emerging growers with clear, actionable visions for long-term success,” Thaxton said. “We are extremely appreciative of First South Farm Credit’s support. We hope to inspire farmers to continue growing forward in their operations.” 

Applicants will be evaluated on how they address key challenges in production, marketing, labor, technology or sustainability. For beginner farmers, a well-defined growth plan and potential for lasting impact are essential. Across all applicants, leadership, creativity and a drive to improve Alabama’s specialty crop industry are at the heart of this recognition.

For more information, visit www.afvga.org/awards. Questions? Contact AFVGA Executive Director Blake Thaxton at BThaxton@alfafarmers.org.