Celebrating 30 Years of Growing BC’s Agriculture & Food Sector
For three decades, IAF has supported thousands of projects, partnerships, and ideas that strengthen BC’s agriculture and food community. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we’re reflecting on the people and stories that shaped our journey — and we’d love to hear from you.
Please share your message, memory, or congratulations. Whether you’ve worked with us, participated in a project, or simply believe in supporting a thriving agriculture and food sector, your voice is an important part of our story.
Your contribution may be featured in our anniversary materials (social media, newsletters and more) throughout the year.
Add your message below and help us celebrate this milestone together. Photos, videos and well-wishes are welcome!
Ralph Vandalfsen
Former IAF Board Member & Participant in IAF-Delivered ProgramsRalph Vandalfsen
“Congratulations to IAF on 30 years of impact. As both a former board member and a proud participant in IAF-delivered programs, I’ve seen firsthand how your commitment to collaboration and innovation strengthens BC’s agricultural community. Thank you for three decades of leadership, and may the momentum you’ve built continue to support the sector for many years to come.”
Walter Fritsche
Former Director of the BoardWalter Fritsche
“Thirty years of IAF! As a past director (formerly representing grain and oil seeds), congratulations IAF on 30 years of delivering programs to agriculture in BC.”
John Berry
Former IAF Board MemberJohn Berry
“Delighted to see the way IAF has evolved and made such a wonderful contribution to the agri-food sector and public benefit. I’m proud to have been part of the formation of IAF, and an ex-officio Director for its first 16 years. I salute the members, the directors, the staff, and the industry and government partners who have built something more remarkable and sustainable than we could have envisaged 30 years ago.”
Adrie Stuyt
Hol-Amer FarmsAdrie Stuyt
“Congrats on 30 years of giving farmers that extra hand to get a project started and finishing. I did 2 projects with IAFBC and both very successful. Hopefully more projects to come.”
Roma Tingle
Former IAF Board MemberRoma Tingle
“Congratulations to IAF celebrating 30 years. We were told that the initial funding we received would be done in 3-5 years! So very happy to see that it has not only lasted but has made such a huge impact on agriculture in BC. I know there are many stories to be told, especially in the early years. One especially comes to mind about a board member left behind on a field trip stop and was seen running down the highway after the bus! It was an honour and privilege to be part of the first board. “Charles Cornell
General Manager, Community Futures Okanagan SimilkameenCharles Cornell
“I am so thankful for the IAF organization & team. They have enabled our community to launch one of the most innovative & impactful projects for agriculture in our region. Your spirit of partnership & support along with patience with challenging timelines has meant everything. Your support is directly assisting our local agriculture industry to deal with the reverberating impacts of the closure of BC Tree Fruits.”
