Investing in Ontario’s rural economy will grow all of Ontario and produce good jobs in family-oriented communities.
OFA encourages rural economic development policies and programs that support:
Attraction, retention and expansion of rural businesses, particularly for the agri-food sector
The expansion of agricultural operations into value-added agriculture, such as on-farm processing, direct farm marketing and agri-tourism
Youth retention and attraction initiatives to encourage a skilled workforce of tomorrow
Agricultural research and development stations and innovation hubs in rural areas, providing high-skilled jobs, technological advancements and enhanced productivity
Rural small business support services to encourage business incubation, innovation and entrepreneurship
Initiatives and opportunities to utilize crop residue feedstocks and purpose-grown crops to fuel the bioeconomy
Access to reliable broadband internet for business development and utilization of precision agriculture technology
Affordable natural gas access as a competitive necessity to attract and retain businesses in rural Ontario
Social infrastructure such as rural schools, health care, child care and community centres for the health and well-being of all rural residents
OFA advocates for rural economic development policies by:
Advocating for municipalities to take a leadership role in agriculture economic development initiatives using our Checklist and Guide to Support Agriculture in Your Municipality and other resources on our website (www.ofa.on.ca/GrowAg) to grow the agricultural sector
Communicating with municipal staff, non-government organizations, regional provincial staff and the private sector on agricultural issues in partnership with OMAFRA through our Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Community of Practice
Campaigning for affordable natural gas access as a competitive necessity to attract and retain businesses in rural Ontario
Collaboration on initiatives such as the SWIFT network to expand access to reliable broadband internet across rural Ontario
Consulting with OMAFRA on the Agricultural System in the Greater Golden Horseshoe to assist with policy development and the identification of the agricultural land base and the businesses and infrastructure that support agriculture all along the value chain
Provide ongoing input into the Agriculture, Aquaculture and Food Processing Sector Strategy for Northern Ontario
OFA Position
OFA encourages vibrant and resilient rural communities through its commitment to rural economic development. Policies that support the economic well-being of rural Ontario will benefit farm families, the agri-food sector, and the broader provincial and national economy.
