Arrell Food Institute

The Arrell Family Foundation’s Transformative Gift to the University of Guelph

In 2019, the Arrell Family Foundation made a historic $20 million investment to establish the Arrell Food Institute (AFI) at the University of Guelph. This visionary gift, the largest in the university’s history, was a cornerstone in advancing food security, sustainability, and innovation on a global scale.

With a mission to improve human and planetary health through food, the Arrell Family Foundation partnered with the University of Guelph and Dr. Evan Fraser, CEO of the Arrell Food Institute, to address some of the world’s most pressing food challenges. This collaboration enables the AFI to support cutting-edge research, foster future food leaders, and drive transformative solutions in the agri-food sector.

The AFI’s programming—ranging from fellowships to global food leadership initiatives—aligns with the Foundation’s core values, further solidifying the University of Guelph’s position as Canada’s top agri-food institution. The Arrell Food Institute’s contributions continue to make an impact through research publications, collaborations, and global dialogues aimed at creating a more sustainable and resilient food system.