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Agriculture and Agri-Food BR&E Study

​​​​Regional partners undertook a significant study of the area's agriculture and agri-food sector to build regional and local Action Plans. The partnership group includes the County of Simcoe, Grey County, Bruce County, City of Barrie, City of Orillia, Georgian College and local business support agencies.

On November 28th and 29th, 2018, the County of Simcoe provided two report back sessions to survey participants and the general public about the results from the Agriculture and Agri-Food Value Chain Survey.  A copy of the presentation and the final trends report developed by Ainley Group are available below for review.  The County of Simcoe and our partners are working to develop future initiatives based on this Survey.

Presentation

Final Trends Report

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About the study:

The Agriculture and Agri-Food Value Chain Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) Study will consist of an analysis of the current agriculture and agri-food business climate based on standardized interviews with local businesses.

FAQs

What is a Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) Study?
A BR&E Study is an analysis of the current business climate in an area or sector based on standardized interviews with businesses. The survey results are then compiled and analyzed to look for trends, opportunities, challenges and provide baseline information. The goal is to then use the results of the BR&E to develop Action Plans to address identified opportunities and challenges.

Is this a regional project?
Yes. The County of Simcoe has partnered with Grey County, Bruce County, the City of Barrie, the City of Orillia, Georgian College and local business support agencies to undertake this study.  These municipalities and organizations have partnered to establish a regional approach to supporting this sector. 

What does the survey and interview process involve?
It's easy!  Representatives from the partner organizations will travel to survey participants at a date, time and location that is convenience for you. The process will involve an informal Q&A discussion. Survey questions will be provided in advance. We just need your time as interviews may take up to 2-hours.

When are interviews being conducted?
Interviews are being conducted from February 2018 to August 31, 2018.

What will happen with the results?
The data collected will be analyzed by an independent consultant and used to develop Action Plans for the region and each county. The action plans will be presented at various public forums prior to be being finalized.

How is this project being funded?
Local funding for the program is being provided by the County of Simcoe, Grey County, Bruce County, the City of Barrie, the City of Orillia, Georgian College, Nottawasaga Futures Community Development Corporation and South Georgian Bay Small Business Enterprise Centre.

To RSVP, contact the County of Simcoe's Economic Development Office at 705-726-9300 ext. 1206 or e-mail edo@simcoe.ca.