The Creative Rural Economy – From Theory to Practice conference is unique.

The multi-location conference offers participants an opportunity to experience sessions in a university setting as well as in the heart of creative rural Ontario – Prince Edward County. It starts June 14th.

The first full day session in Grant Hall at Queen’s University focuses on the theory behind the creative rural economy. It examines regional economic development, challenges and solutions for creative economy businesses, and practical tools for community action. Featured creative industry key note speakers come from Scotland and Australia, as well as Queen’s.

The remainder of the conference is based in Prince Edward County and showcases hands-on practices from industry specific companies in the creative rural economy. Participants will experience the vineyards of Hillier Creek Estates, or see what goes on behind the scenes at a video production studio at Whistle Stop Productions. There are also sessions on the role of youth in the creative economy, as well as creating opportunities for new Canadians. The conference wraps up with a discussion on how to turn creative economy theory into practice.

“Eastern Ontario is well positioned as Canada’s Creative Corner,” says Dr. Yolande Chan, Director of The Monieson Centre at Queen’s School of Business, which is one of the conference sponsors. “This conference gives Canadian and international academic researchers a chance to exchange ideas with creative economic professionals. Rural communities stand to benefit greatly from the new knowledge this conference will create.”

Attendees can register for the entire conference or for single days only here.