The Fresno Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Malcolm Media’s Fresno Ag Expo and the Fresno County Farm Bureau, invites the community to celebrate the individuals and businesses whose leadership, dedication and contributions continue to strengthen Valley agriculture at the 2026 Agriculture Awards, taking place Friday, November 13, 2026, at the Fresno Fairgrounds’ Industrial Education Building. Held in conjunction with the Fresno Ag Expo, this annual celebration brings together agricultural leaders, businesses, elected officials and community members to recognize the people who help sustain and advance one of Fresno County’s most important industries.
The 2026 Agriculture Award recipients are:
• Agriculturalist of the Year – Fresno County Supervisor Ernest “Buddy” Mendes: A lifelong agriculturalist raised on his family’s dairy farm in Riverdale, Mendes has dedicated decades to farming, public service and advocating for Fresno County’s rural communities.
• Baker Tilly Agribusiness of the Year – Mulholland Citrus: Represented by Tom, Heather and Alyssa Mulholland, this four-generation family business exemplifies the strength of Valley agriculture through its commitment to citrus production, innovation and preserving a family legacy.
• AGvocate of the Year – Steve Malanca, My Job Depends on Ag Magazine: Recognized for his dedication to advocating for agriculture and highlighting the industry’s far-reaching impact on the people, businesses and economy of the Central Valley.
• Agricultural Employee of the Year – Jasmine Reynozo, Bee Sweet Citrus, Inc.: Honored for her contributions to the agricultural workforce and for representing the dedication of the individuals who help sustain the region’s agricultural success.
A Community Celebration Made Possible by Sponsorships
Thanks to the generous support of local businesses and organizations, the Agriculture Awards remain free and open to the community, allowing more people to come together in recognition of the individuals and businesses that make Fresno County agriculture exceptional. Sponsorships are the primary source of financial support for the event, helping cover the costs of hosting the celebration while keeping admission complimentary for all attendees.
Businesses and organizations interested in supporting the event can participate through a variety of sponsorship opportunities. Sponsors receive reserved seating, recognition for their contributions and exclusive access to a VIP Networking Reception with this year’s award recipients and community leaders.
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General admission is complimentary, with open seating available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability. Advance registration is encouraged, as seating is limited. By becoming a sponsor, businesses not only gain visibility among the region’s agricultural and business communities but also play a direct role in preserving an annual tradition that celebrates the people behind Fresno County’s agricultural success.
Event Details
Event: 2026 Fresno Chamber Agriculture Awards
Date: Friday, November 13, 2026
Location: Fresno Fairgrounds, Industrial Education Building
Awards Program: 9:00 a.m.
Admission: Free; advance registration encouraged
Seating: Reserved for sponsors; general admission seating is first-come, first-served
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For event registration, sponsorship opportunities or media inquiries, please contact:
Tatevik Hovhannisyan
Events Manager | Fresno Chamber of Commerce
(559) 905-6090
Register to attend the full Fresno Ag Expo for free at AgExpo.biz.