Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Join for Destination Dialogues: Innovations in Rural Destination Development on November 29, 2023, from 8:30 am – 10:00 am PST / 11:30 am – 1:00 pm EST.
This free online event unites rural destination developers nationwide for a 90-minute exploration of innovative approaches to strengthen rural Canadian contexts. Expect insightful discussions, case studies, and a dynamic panel that transcends borders, fostering connections and inspiring regenerative tourism solutions.
Contribute your insights to a post-event summary document, amplifying the impact of shared knowledge. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen understanding, forge connections, and be inspired in the realm of rural destination development.
In a groundbreaking Rural Tourism Innovation Summit hosted by Destination Canada, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries converged to explore and promote innovative solutions for the sustainable development of rural destinations.
The event featured a captivating keynote speech, a dynamic moderated panel, and enlightening destination case studies, all aimed at inspiring and emboldening participants to revolutionize tourism in their respective rural areas.
The keynote speaker, Graham Sherman, a self-professed “high-level geek” turned disruptor, shared his entrepreneurial journey of transforming a backyard hobby into the thriving Tool Shed Brewing Company. Sherman’s talk resonated with the audience as he passionately illustrated how embracing disruption can lead to transformative changes in one’s life and business. His insights served as a powerful catalyst for participants to reconsider conventional approaches and embrace innovation.
The moderated panel discussion focused on “Entrepreneurship Driving Responsible Rural Development,” featuring industry experts Alex Berlyand from Parkbus, Chris Tait from Klahoose Wilderness Lodge, and Isaac Murphy from Mysa Nordic Spa & Resort. The panel explored the role of entrepreneurship in fostering responsible development, shedding light on best practices and challenges faced in rural settings.
The summit further delved into real-world solutions through destination case studies. Alex Bouchard of Rugged Apprentice shared insights into their unique approach to rural tourism, demonstrating how authenticity and rugged experiences can attract visitors. Joao Carrolo from the Centre Wellington Downtown Shuttle Program presented a compelling case study on enhancing local transportation to boost tourism, emphasizing the importance of community engagement.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in lively discussions, exchanging ideas and strategies to drive tourism innovation in their rural destinations. The collaborative spirit of the summit was evident in the small groups formed, discussing possibilities amid the backdrop of a lavender field and a rustic farm building.
To ensure the knowledge-sharing continues beyond the summit, Destination Canada announced the creation of a comprehensive summary document. This document, compiling insights, learnings, and best practices shared during the summit, aims to benefit all participants and serve as a valuable resource for destination leaders seeking to implement sustainable tourism solutions.
The Rural Tourism Innovation Summit left attendees inspired and equipped with the tools needed to propel their rural destinations towards a future of responsible and creative tourism. As these insights ripple through communities, the impact is poised to be felt far beyond the summit, fostering a new era of sustainable rural tourism across the country.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
