York Region ‘s Agriculture and Agri-food Sector Strategy: 2024-2027
Client: York Region
Expertise Applied:
Agriculture and agri-food sector research and insights
Community engagement and consultation
Facilitation
Strategy development to support agri-food sector growth
Collaboration with local municipal and regional staff
Qualitative and quantitative research analysis and insights
Plain language writing
York Region is a powerhouse for agriculture and agri-food, home to some of the most productive agricultural lands in Canada and an agri-food sector that contributes to local and global economies. To build on sector strengths, we worked with York Region to develop an updated Agriculture and Agri-food Sector Strategy (2024–2027). The strategy provides a clear path for future agricultural growth, innovation, and sustainability in the region.
York Region’s Agriculture and Agri-food Sector Strategy will enable the sector to thrive for years to come. It includes three overarching pillars with goals and 27 targeted actions to help guide economic development in the sector through to 2027.
Grounded in data-driven insights and meaningful engagement with community partners, the Strategy was shaped through:
A review of global to local sector priorities, York Region’s strategic documents, and key economic trends
Input from over 200 people, including five focus groups, 21 interviews, an agri-food business survey, and engagement with the Agriculture and Agri-Food Advisory Committee
Collaboration with York Region’s Economic Strategy team, including through presentations, working group meetings, and facilitated sessions to refine the Strategy’s pillars, goals, and actions
The resulting Strategy reflects the voices, priorities, and ambitions of York Region’s agri-food community. It offers clear direction for regional and local partners to support the sector, while also remaining adaptable to emerging challenges and opportunities. We are proud to have supported a process that balances practical action with long-term vision, ensuring that agriculture and agri-food remain a strong part of York Region’s future.
Is your organization interested in engaging with the agri-food industry or your rural community to better understand strategic opportunities to support the agri-food sector? Our team of professionals can help!