June 24, 2024 – Rural Oxford Economic Development Corporation has joined Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show (COFS) to create a Discover Rural Oxford exhibit.
“The exhibit will bring local fare to an international stage,” said Rural Oxford EDC Economic Development Officer Crystal van Roekel.
Discover Rural Oxford is an exciting initiative set to debut at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, the country’s premier agricultural event. The exhibit aims to spotlight the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape of Rural Oxford.
The Discover Rural Oxford tent will host four distinct Rural Oxford businesses each of the show’s three days. Those businesses selected will then have the opportunity to showcase their products and offer visitors an interactive experience, allowing them to taste, touch, or try locally sourced goods firsthand.
“The vendors will have the opportunity to sell their products directly on-site, giving rural businesses access to a larger market stage,” explained van Roekel.
“By providing a platform for Rural Oxford businesses to engage with a diverse audience of local and international visitors, Discover Rural Oxford promotes economic growth within the region and fosters connections between producers and consumers in the agricultural community,” she added.
This innovative market-style approach promises to unlock new opportunities for Rural Oxford’s entrepreneurial ecosystem while enriching the overall experience of attendees at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show. Participants will benefit from the exposure at the 3-day event and be included in an extensive marketing campaign through Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show and Rural Oxford EDC channels.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to add a new dimension to our event which attracts over 36,000 visitors,” explained Carol Carson, COFS Sponsorship and Partnership Lead.
“12 Rural Oxford business participants will benefit from being showcased alongside a diverse array of businesses spanning the agriculture sector at the show. We highlight not just agriculture but also manufacturing, technology, tourism, and agri-food enterprises, many of which hail from Southwestern Ontario,” she added.
For over 30 years, Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show has been bringing together visitors and exhibitors from across Canada and beyond, to showcase the newest and most innovative products and technology in agriculture. It takes place on September 10, 11 and 12, 2024.
“We look forward to bringing this exhibit to such a staple event in our community and being able to champion our Rural Oxford businesses on this platform,” said van Roekel.
Rural Oxford businesses that are interested in applying for this program can find the application form here https://ruraloxford.ca/discover/.
Only businesses located in a Rural Oxford Township are eligible and preference will be given to those who meet program eligibility. This year’s Outdoor Farm Show occurs on September 10, 11 and 12.
