#USA #Chicago #BMO #One Young World #Generation Regen

Celebrating Innovation in Regenerative Agriculture

On May 13, 2026, BMO, in collaboration with One Young World, proudly announced the winners of the inaugural Generation Regen Challenge. This groundbreaking initiative aims to foster regenerative and sustainable agriculture across Canada and the United States, recognizing the critical role young leaders play in steering innovative solutions towards ecosystem restoration and food security.

The Generation Regen Challenge was born out of an urgent need for climate-smart agricultural practices. It seeks to elevate regenerative approaches that not only boost soil and water quality but also enhance biodiversity, endorse animal welfare, and employ Indigenous and cultural practices to ensure equitable food access for all communities. Through targeted funding and opportunities for global exposure, the Challenge strives to empower innovators to chart a course towards agricultural systems that benefit both the land and local communities.

After a thorough selection process, two organizations emerged as the winners, each receiving a grant designed to further their impactful work. Additionally, four organizations were recognized as finalists, also granted funding to bolster their initiatives. Each winner and finalist will have the distinct opportunity to attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa, where they will connect with a global network of youthful leaders dedicated to enacting positive change in the world.

Challenge Winners

1. Emily Harris, Victoria, Canada – The Sandown Centre for Regenerative Agriculture focuses on an integrated approach to farming, featuring practical training for farmers, food production for schools and food banks, and educational programs for participants of all ages.
2. Larry Davis, Chesapeake Bay Watershed, United States – Green Mechanics utilizes innovative nature-based systems, including Algal Turf Scrubber technology, to recover nutrients from stormwater and agricultural runoff, transforming them into valuable biomass and soil-enhancing inputs.

Challenge Finalists

• - Diana Virgovicova, Xatoms, Canada
• - Ranah Chavoshi, PhyCo Technologies Inc., Canada
• - Marika Dewar-Norosky, Manitoba Organics, Canada
• - Emma Ekua-Bedua Hudson, Food for Thought Foundation, United States

The initiatives funded through the Generation Regen Challenge focus on critical areas, such as regenerative farming methods, soil health enhancement, water stewardship, biodiversity conservation, crop diversity, and improving access to safe, nutritious food for marginalized communities.

According to Sharon Haward-Laird, Group Head of Canadian Commercial Banking and North American Integrated Solutions, “Through the Generation Regen Challenge, we are proud to support the next generation of leaders transforming agriculture for the future. These innovators exemplify how regenerative practices can yield better environmental results while cultivating stronger, more resilient communities and food systems.”

Ella Robertson McKay, Managing Director of One Young World, added, “Young leaders are crucial for shaping a sustainable future in agriculture. The Generation Regen Challenge reflects our commitment to support youth-driven innovation that creates lasting environmental and social impacts. We appreciate BMO's significant backing for these leaders.”

Paul Polman, a judge for the Challenge and a prominent business leader, stated, “The Generation Regen Challenge demonstrates the powerful results that can be achieved when ambition is coupled with action. These teams are not just envisioning the future; they are actively working to create it. This gives me hope.”

The Generation Regen Challenge was announced during the One Young World Summit, symbolizing a mutual dedication by BMO and One Young World to empower the upcoming generation of innovators and broaden the scope of solutions that can enact meaningful improvements in North American agricultural systems.

BMO’s mission to support community growth is evident in their commitment to initiatives like these, which consistently prioritize the well-being of communities across North America. In 2025 alone, BMO allocated more than $124 million to community progress, which encompassed over $101 million in philanthropic contributions to various charities and organizations. Additionally, BMO employees dedicated more than 54,000 hours to community service, along with donating upwards of $40.3 million through employee-driven charitable campaigns.

For further information, please visit BMO.com.

About One Young World

One Young World is a leading global platform that unites ambitious young leaders from all corners of the globe, aiming to foster positive changes within communities and businesses alike. With a community of over 20,000 Ambassadors from 196 countries, One Young World is committed to facilitating initiatives that enhance global health, education, job equality, and the promotion of sustainable practices. Collectively, member-led initiatives have significantly impacted the lives of over 60 million people globally, generating more than $4 billion in social capital since 2018.

Each year, One Young World hosts a Summit wherein various political, social, humanitarian, and business leaders lend their support to the cause. The upcoming Summit in Cape Town in 2026 seeks to further the impact of its efforts.

For additional insights about One Young World, please explore their programs at What we do | One Young World.