We believe that the local fair or exhibition is a cornerstone of Canadian life—an essential thread in the fabric of our communities. It’s not just a tradition of the past, but a foundation for the future. Fairs and exhibitions bring people together, celebrate rural heritage, and spark pride in place. They matter now more than ever.
Across Canada and beyond, fair boards are facing real challenges—but they’re also full of remarkable people ready to lead with heart, hope, and action.
In this video, You Make THE Difference founder Ian Hill shares why this initiative was created – and why the time to equip and unleash Difference Makers across Canada is now.
The You Make THE Difference National Initiative is your province or territory’s opportunity to strengthen fair boards, empower volunteers, and build resilient rural communities through a fully-funded, high-impact training program.
A province-wide, in-person training tour tailored to the specific needs of every fair board and agricultural society in your region.
Unlimited access to an online training platform featuring videos, guides, and resources to support the ongoing development of leaders and volunteers.
Exclusive access to the You Make THE Difference mobile app for every participating fair board—a powerful digital tool that supports, equips, and connects leaders across Canada. With on-demand training, downloadable resources, and real-time peer support, help is now just a tap away.
Featured participation from Ian Hill at your annual provincial conference or convention, including a keynote address and hands-on involvement in key sessions or workshops. Ian will attend in person to inspire, equip, and energize your members. All travel, lodging, and speaker fees are fully covered by the grant, ensuring no additional cost to your organization—while delivering maximum value and province-wide visibility.
A $1,000 administrative grant to assist with coordination and implementation within your province or territory.
The You Make THE Difference National Initiative is already making an impact from coast to coast!
This list will continue to grow as more provinces are awarded. Stay tuned for updates — and if your province isn’t listed yet, there’s still time to apply and be part of this program!
Provinces shown in red have been awarded.
Your provincial association has the opportunity to receive a grant and an award that brings the ‘You Make THE Difference National’ to every fair board in your province, providing lasting benefits at no cost to participants.
The ‘You Make THE Difference’ is a transformative program designed to address the real challenges fair boards face today. Led by award-winning humanitarian Ian Hill, who has empowered thousands of communities across North America and beyond, this tour equips fair boards with the tools and strategies they need to thrive.
Immersive 3.5-hour in-person workshops designed specifically for fair boards and agricultural societies, focused on practical strategies, real-world solutions, and tools that can be implemented immediately.
Participants receive ongoing access to a valuable suite of post-training resources—guides, templates, and best practices—paired with a 30-day follow-up platform for continued learning, connection, and support.
The initiative includes coordinated efforts to engage and train every fair board in your province or territory, fostering a unified approach to common challenges and encouraging collaboration on a provincial level.
Support doesn’t end after the workshop. Fair boards gain access to personalized consultations, peer networking opportunities, and expert guidance to help ensure long-term success and strategy implementation.
Interactive sessions equip leaders with practical, ready-to-use tools to tackle today’s most pressing challenges—like volunteer shortages, leadership fatigue, and financial sustainability.
Participants take part in hands-on activities designed to address local issues, deepen community involvement, and create tangible, lasting results that benefit their fairs and hometowns.
The You Make THE Difference initiative is designed for anyone committed to the success of fairs, exhibitions, and their communities across Canada.
Looking for practical, modern tools to increase their fair’s impact, efficiency, and sustainability.
Supporting their member fairs with accessible, results-driven training that speaks directly to the challenges boards face today.
Seeking ways to build stronger teams, expand their influence, and address common obstacles like burnout, recruitment, and retention.
Interested in supporting economic development, community identity, and cultural preservation through vibrant, successful fairs.
The ‘You Make THE Difference’ initiative is a high-impact, fully funded program led by award-winning humanitarian Ian Hill, who has spent over three decades equipping thousands of communities across North America to grow, adapt, and thrive. Participants will benefit from:
Immersive, 3.5-hour in-person workshops tailored to local needs and challenges.
Exclusive Post-Training Resources Guides, templates, and best practices—plus a 30-day learning support platform.
Strategy A coordinated plan to engage and uplift every fair board across the region.
Follow-up consultation, peer connections, and expert insight to keep the momentum going.
Focused on solutions for real issues—volunteer engagement, succession planning, fundraising, and more.
Hands-on initiatives that drive engagement, impact, and legacy at the local level.
Fairs.com believes that every fair—regardless of size, location, or budget—deserves the tools and support to thrive. They understand the critical role fairs play in Canadian communities: preserving agricultural heritage, fostering local pride, and bringing people together in meaningful ways. With innovative solutions in digital ticketing, marketing, and website services, Fairs.com provides the modern infrastructure fairs need to remain strong, relevant, and rooted in tradition—while embracing a sustainable future.
