What are the critical challenges and opportunities confronting rural areas? How can food and beverage producers, community leaders, and businesses support and build vibrant rural places? The ‘All the Right Ingredients’ Summit brought together leading agricultural producers, restaurants, local government leaders, nonprofit/voluntary organizations, and business/economic development organizations in Exeter on October 10, 2017.

Dr. Gibson provided a keynote address that focused on identifying some of the biggest challenges and opportunities for rural development. The presentation examined the challenges of connecting rural issues to urban audiences and implications of globalization. At the same time, Dr. Gibson highlighted the opportunities of place based development strategies, re-assessing and utilizing local assets, and understanding the mobility of rural wealth. The discussion provided a background for further Summit discussions on regional successes, regional business catalysts, and how to move ideas into action.

The Summit was held by the South Huron Chamber of Commerce in Exeter. Further information on the event can be found at http://www.shcc.on.ca.