Explore a globally recognized agricultural equipment manufacturer rooted in rural Ontario with more than a century of innovation. This stop showcases how advanced engineering and manufacturing are transforming nutrient management through industry-leading liquid manure equipment, positioning this rural business as an international leader serving farms across North America and beyond.
Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum
SETTING THE STAGE FOR RURAL PROSPERITY
Registration Now Open!
September 28-29, 2026
Join us for this year’s Municipal Agriculture Economic Development & Planning Forum, a gathering of municipal leaders, planners, economic developers, farmers, agri-food professionals, and community stakeholders. This year’s theme, Setting the Stage for Rural Prosperity, highlights the partnerships, innovation, and strategic thinking driving growth across Perth County’s rural and agricultural communities and beyond.
Attendees can experience the full forum with the Day 1 agri-food tour and reception plus the Day 2 conference, or choose to attend the Day 2 conference only.
Together, the forum will explore ideas and solutions shaping the future of agriculture, planning, and rural economic development.
Join us for the discussions helping set the stage for rural prosperity
Who Should Attend
- Municipal planning and economic development professionals
- Farmers, producers, and agricultural organizations
- Government representatives and policy leaders
- Agri-food business owners, entrepreneurs, and innovators
- Community leaders, partners, and industry stakeholders
What To Expect
- Real-world rural economic development case studies
- Discussions on planning, growth, and municipal collaboration
- Behind-the-scenes insights into Perth County’s agri-food, manufacturing, and agri-tourism sectors
- Networking with municipal and industry leaders
- Experience Perth County and Stratford’s culture, food, and festival atmosphere
Forum Agenda
DAY 1 - AGRIBUSINESS SHOWCASE TOUR
Experience the innovation and diversification driving Perth County's rural economy. This immersive tour showcases businesses that are scaling up, adding value, and creating new opportunities right here in our community.
Date: Monday, September 29, 2026
Tour: 8:30am-4:00pm
Tour Stop 1: Turning Waste into Opportunity: Innovation in Nutrient Management
Tour Stop 2: From Pasture to Plate: A Cheese Story
Discover an award-winning artisan producer where traditional European craftsmanship meets on-farm sustainability. Learn how they've created a "closed-loop" system, turning their primary product into a celebrated, value-added brand that has also become a popular agri-tourism destination.
Tour Stop 3: Scaling Food Production for a Growing Province
Go behind the scenes at a leading egg grading and distribution facility to learn how innovation, logistics, and strong producer partnerships support Ontario’s food supply chain. This stop highlights the scale, efficiency, and technology required to deliver fresh food products to consumers across the province and beyond.
Tour Stop 4: Where Hospitality Meets Rural Tradition
Discover how a family-owned restaurant and bakery became a well-known culinary destination rooted in Mennonite traditions and homemade cooking. This stop demonstrates the power of agri-tourism, local food, and authentic visitor experiences in supporting rural economic development and community growth.
Tour Stop 5: Excellence in Dairy Innovation
Visit an award-winning dairy operation recognized for leadership in agricultural excellence, sustainability, and innovation. Learn how modern dairy farming combines advanced technology, animal care, and environmental stewardship to build a resilient and forward-thinking agricultural business for the next generation.
Reception
Join us for a Perth County reception featuring local food and drink while connecting with fellow attendees in a relaxed networking atmosphere. Experience a taste of Perth County’s agri-tourism sector and enjoy an evening celebrating the people, places, and businesses that make our region unique.
Reception: 5:30-7:30pm
DAY 2
Conference
Join us for a full-day conference featuring insightful presentations and interactive sessions focused on advancing rural prosperity through agriculture in Perth County and beyond. Engage with industry experts and municipal leaders to explore economic development and planning strategies, alongside innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth in the agri-food sector.
Location: Burnside Agriplex, Stratford
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Time: 8:30am – 3:00pm
Conference Agenda forthcoming.
We are looking forward to setting the stage for new ideas, meaningful connections, and rural prosperity.