Nominations still open for Fruit + Vegetable 40 Under Forty Class of 2026
We are still seeking nominations for the Fruit + Vegetable 40 Under 40 Class of 2027. Submit a nomination today.
It’s a question we certainly feel is worth asking every year: Who’s shaping the future of the fruit and vegetable industry right now?
Fruit Growers News and Vegetable Growers News are searching for the next class of standout specialty crop professionals for the Fruit + Vegetable 40 Under 40 Awards.
We need a bit of help from our farming friends in identifying the industry’s rising leaders. The annual program honors innovators, problem-solvers and forward-thinkers who are making a meaningful impact across specialty crops.
From growers and shippers to researchers, crop consultants, marketers, extension specialists and ag technology leaders, the program recognizes professionals under 40 who are helping move the industry forward through leadership, innovation and service.
However, one of the biggest challenges each year is ensuring enough deserving individuals from every corner of the industry are nominated. The good news? Self-nominations are welcome, and previous nominees who were not selected are encouraged to apply again. Advertisers are also welcome to nominate industry leaders they see as worthy of a spot in our 2026 Class.
Once selected, the Class of 2026 will be featured in Fruit Growers News and Vegetable Growers News and honored during a special reception at the Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable & Farm Market EXPO in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Honorees also have the option of writing an article about an important topic of your choosing for publication in a print edition of Fruit Growers News and Vegetable Growers News. We’re all about elevating the people in this industry that make it special and providing a platform to showcase your thought leadership and expertise!
Eligible nominees must:
- Be under the age of 40
- Work within the fruit and vegetable industry
- Demonstrate leadership and innovation
- Show a commitment to advancing the industry
Think someone deserves recognition? Don’t wait for someone else to nominate them.
Submit a nomination here: Nominate a candidate