ON Regional Economic Development

If there is a bright spot to be found in the COVID-19 story, it is that a foundation has been laid for a rural renaissance. As a result of shifting societal norms, we might just be able to fundamentally pivot the future of rural communities that have been plagued by outmigration and exclusion from significant economic development activity for decades. 

Geographic boundaries have essentially been erased, employers and employees alike are embracing new work models that allow job functions to be done remotely. Technologies exist in many areas to facilitate this new norm and quality of life has been widely redefined using characteristics that are uniquely suited to rural communities. Although COVID-19 may appear the perfect storm, there are opportunities as well. The question is, will rural areas take shelter from the storm or dance in the economic rain? 

The second Teeny Tiny Summit “Teeny Tiny Resurgence”, will discuss just this…how have our rural communities adapted to dance in this economic rain? Peter Kenyon, world renowned and much sought-after social entrepreneur, and rural community enthusiast will be our keynote. Peter has worked with over 1500 communities in Australia and around the world to facilitate fresh and creative ways to stimulate community and economic renewal. He has been a regular speaker at Teeny Tiny Summits and brings an inspiring approach to community economic development. He is motivated by the desire to create healthy, caring, inclusive, sustainable, and enterprising communities. 

The program will also include success stories from small places throughout the province, and opportunities to share and learn from other community leaders. The Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) has committed to multi-year support of the Teeny Tiny program allowing high quality keynote speakers to be secured for this year’s webinars, including Peter Kenyon.  

Immediately following the webinar, be sure to join our chat by searching on Twitter for #TeenyTinySummit to connect, network and share ideas on the Teeny Tiny Resurgence.  Register today on the Teeny Tiny Summit website. If you attended the October Welcoming Newcomers Teeny Tiny Summit, you will be automatically registered for the December 1^st Teeny Tiny Summit webinar.