Rural Oxford
About Us
Whether you are a start-up or expanding business, we have expertise to help you on your path to success.
At no charge to you, we offer a broad range of services and resources to help you grow in Rural Oxford.
We understand that most businesses will only ever deal with the planning, zoning, and a building inspector once or twice in the lifetime of their business, we can be a resource and a guide through your relocation or expansion process.
We are responsive with a personal connection because you are important to us.
About Our Team
In 2020, Crystal van Roekel joined our Rural Oxford team. She’s been a project coordinator for 5+ years and brings 14 years experience as a co-owner/operator of a progressive dairy farm in Oxford County as well as a self-employed bookkeeper/business administrator. Crystal is genuinely passionate about promoting our local business owners and committed to supporting their continued growth in Rural Oxford.
Since 2019, Ronda has been leading our organization. A certified Economic Developer, she brings 14 years experience serving small communities as a business resource, building and delivering business programs, and providing support to business owners as they navigate growth. Ronda is a goal-oriented leader and thoughtful connector who is motivated by collaboration and helping others.
About the Board of Directors
In 2014, Rural Oxford Economic Development Corporation formalized itself as a non-profit economic development organization with a mandate to serve and focus on the diverse needs of Oxford County’s rural economies.
Our five member municipalities appoint two community representatives to serve on our governance Board to help set strategy, oversee operations and ensure fiduciary accountability.
Our 2023/24 Board of Directors are Nancy Demarest (Chair), Rob Parkhill (Vice-Chair), Jim Pickard (Secretary-Treasurer), Judi Meadows, Katie Grigg, John DeBruyn, Keith Stevens, Brad Smith, Adrian Couwenberg, and Colin Yates.
Mission
To support business growth and development across Rural Oxford.
Vision
Rural Oxford… Where people and business prosper.
Strategic Plan
Strategic Planning is a critical consideration for all organizations. It is used to focus the organization’s finite energy and resources and ensure that the board and staff are working toward common goals and agree on the intended outcomes.
