The North & Eastern Ontario Local Food Conference has officially ended. This year, hundreds of attendees from regions across Ontario attended the virtual conference to learn about topics such as agri-tourism, farming, greenhouse production, and more from experts and small Ontario businesses. Following the theme of local food, two chef-led lunches were hosted to encourage people to support Ontario farmers by purchasing local Ontario produce.
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Owning a farm is much more than a business; it is a way of life. As with most businesses, there are some very stressful times that can weigh you down. During busy seasons or critical production periods, it is normal to be faced with time constraints and pressures and facing major financial issues can multiply these pressures many times. During these times, and with the added reality of COVID-19, these demands can put anyone involved in the business of agriculture under a great deal of stress, often impacting one’s mental health.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) cares about the well-being of farmers and farm families and recognizes the unique challenges that can lead to mental health issues. In an effort to support Ontario farmers and their families experiencing mental health issues, OMAFRA has made various resources available to anyone needing some help during a difficult time. These include:
If your community is looking for ways to support your local agriculture sector; consider attending the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) online Agriculture Economic Development Training.
The course is split into two sessions and registration is free.
With the ongoing pandemic, Annual General Meetings (AGM) are being held in a virtual environment using video conferencing. Video conferencing is a good option when meetings can’t be held in-person. Participants still have the ability to be heard and seen in real-time using online meeting platforms.
Now more than ever, it is very important to plan for your AGM well in advance. This includes setting the date, time, downloading or purchasing the necessary online meeting platform, and sending meeting materials and links to attendees at least a week before the AGM. Although you may be hosting your AGM within the comfort of your own home, you still want to maintain a professional presence.
Here are some tips on conference call/video etiquette:
It has been 25 years since the Government of Canada declared February as Black History Month. In 1995, the Honourable Jean Augustine(pictured above) coordinated a breakthrough unanimous vote to officially designate February as Black History Month in Canada. Augustine is the first Black woman elected as a Canadian Member of Parliament and the first Black woman appointed to the federal cabinet. She has held roles such as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, and continues to dedicate her life to advocate for social justice and equality.
Registration is now open for the FREE South Korea Market Opportunities Webinar occurring on March 10, 2021 from 7:30 – 9:15 PM EST. The Ministries of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT) in collaboration with, the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA) and the Canada Embassy in Korea will host the webinar. This dynamic and engaging event will educate Ontario agri-food and non-food consumer product manufacturers about existing export opportunities to the South Korean market.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique opportunities and pressures for local food systems. The current situation has demonstrated how critical these systems are, as well as exposing weaknesses that make them vulnerable. The North & Eastern Ontario Local Food Virtual Conference provides an opportunity for people to share their experiences and provide diverse perspectives on local food.
About this event:
The virtual conference consists of four free sessions, taking place every Wednesday starting March 10, from 10am – 12pm. The goal of these sessions is to explore the hard-won lessons learned from the pandemic that can help strengthen local food businesses and organizations.
The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) 2021 Virtual Trade Show is now Live! This virtual event is taking place February 1-5, 2021 and features online exhibits and private virtual meetings, where retail buyers can search for products and network live with store brands suppliers. This year, eight Canadian businesses will be exhibiting within OMAFRA’s Ontario Pavilion.
Register NOW to exhibit in the Ontario Pavilion and SAVE!
The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) is partnering with Restaurants Canada to provide Ontario food and beverage manufacturers the opportunity to promote their local products within the Ontario Pavilion. You can register by completing the RC Show 2021 application and submit it to theshow@restaurantscanada.orgby February 14. Some perks of exhibiting with OMAFRA:
All-inclusive promotion package at a discount rate of $1,599
RC Member Fee will be waived under the OMAFRA group booking
6 exhibitor staff registrations
Promotion on RC Show website (must submit .jpg logo by Feb 1)
Please complete the PDF application below if you’re interested in exhibiting within the Ontario Pavilion!
