Ontario investing $125,000 to support Bruce County's 2026 IPM

By: Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson's office  July 17, 2026  77

The Ontario government is investing $125,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support the Ontario Plowmen's Association and the local committee as they team up to present the 2026 International Plowing Match (IPM) and Rural Expo in Bruce County, just west of Walkerton.

Taking place from Sept. 22-26, the IPM is the largest event of its kind in North America, celebrating Ontario's agricultural heritage while showcasing innovation, education, tourism, local industries and businesses, as well as rural communities. The event is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors to the county and beyond.

"The IPM is much more than a celebration of agriculture — it's an opportunity to showcase the people, businesses, industries and communities that make Bruce County and rural Ontario so special," said Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson, minister of rural affairs. "Bruce County is hosting this internationally-recognized event for the first time since Teeswater welcomed visitors in 2008, and it is a tremendous honour.

"Our government's investment through the Experience Ontario program will help attract visitors from near and far, strengthen our local economy and celebrate the dedication of our agricultural community whose commitment to excellence, innovation and land stewardship continues to help shape the future of rural Ontario."

The five-day event will shine a light on the region's vibrant rural communities, thriving agricultural sector and welcoming hospitality, while generating significant economic activity for local businesses, accommodations, restaurants and tourism operators.

At the heart of the event will be the long-standing tradition of competitive plowing, where competitors demonstrate precision, skill and commitment to responsible land stewardship. Alongside the competitions, visitors will experience local food, entertainment, educational programming and hundreds of exhibitors promoting the best of rural Ontario.

The Experience Ontario program supports festivals and events that strengthen local economies, increase tourism and celebrate the unique communities and experiences found across the province.

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson (third from left), presents an Experience Ontario grant to the Bruce County IPM committee; from left, are Melissa Gamble, Gord Lang, Sharon McCorquodale, Cathy Lasby and Brockton mayor Chris Peabody

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Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson's office

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