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Funding Supports Research on Food Industry Competitiveness....Researchers in the College of Management and Economics and the Ontario Agricultural College have received $200,000 from OMAFRA’s New Directions Research Program to study the competitiveness of Ontario’s food industry. “Understanding competitiveness requires a mix of economics, management and public policy expertise that our team is uniquely qualified to provide for this important project,” says principal investigator Erna van Duren, a professor in the Department of Business. In collaboration with a variety of food industry stakeholders, the researchers will examine what drives competitiveness at the business and industry level in Ontario, Canada and the global economy. The three-year study will provide recommendations for industry tailored to each type of organization based on its degree of control or influence on the drivers. Enhanced competitiveness of Ontario food manufacturing strengthens the economic resiliency of rural Ontario as well as the ability of producers, processors and others within the agro-economy to invest in the best environmental and food safety infrastructure and practices. Faculty and students are tackling competitiveness challenges through a combination of standard and novel quantitative analysis techniques, case studies and consultation with industry leaders from companies and industry associations. In support of CME’s goal of transformational learning, the research will also involve undergraduate research experience. Students will learn how to assess the impact that the policy environment can have on corporate performance and develop practical and innovative policy suggestions. The researchers include Prof. Maury Bredahl, Food, Agriculture and Resource Economics; Prof. Mike von Massow, Hospitality and Tourism Management; Prof. Elliot Currie, Business; and Myles Frosst, School of Environmental Sciences. The New Directions Research Program aims to stimulate the sustainable growth and competitiveness of Ontario’s agri-food sector by investing in innovative research through collaborations with industry, rural communities, government and research institutions. |
"My first impression of the University of Guelph was based around the openness to diversity and appreciation of hard work that is evident around campus. This impression was only strengthened by the graduate program in the Department of FARE. With knowledgeable faculty and staff, FARE offers a wide variety of research opportunities and meets the needs of many students with various interests." - Predrag, PhD FARE Graduate Student "My experience as a graduate student in the Department of FARE has been very rewarding. The growing interest in food and agricultural related topics in today's society has provided a great deal of application to current world issues. The department also offers a very communal environment that has allowed me to form lasting relationships, both personally and academically." - Ann-Renée, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student "I chose to study in the Department of FARE because of its excellent reputation in agricultural economics. Strict and systematic coursework training laid a solid foundation for my future research. Kind, diversified and knowledgeable faculty and staff have provided very helpful assistance on my way of learning." - Zongyuan, PhD FARE Graduate Student "One thing that I like most about being a graduate student in the Department of FARE is the focus on consultation. Each semester students meet with the graduate study committee to discuss course selection, plan of research and ask questions." - Na, PhD FARE Graduate Student "I had a great experience completing my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph so I chose to continue into graduate studies. The Department of FARE is a great place to make more real world connections and participate in top quality programs." - Chris, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student "I chose to study in the Department of FARE because of the expertise and flexibility of the program. The instructors and students are highly regarded in the field of agricultural economics, and I have also been able to complete the International Development Studies program. The combination of these programs is providing me with the knowledge to be successful in a field where my direct interests lie." - Derek, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student "The FARE graduate program has provided me with knowledge about important agricultural issues as well as applied economic tools that will help to solve industry problems. My experience in the Department of FARE has been very enjoyable and has opened the doors for a promising and rewarding career in the agriculture industry!" - Rebecca, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student "Guelph is a great place to study and FARE is a top program in my chosen field. The faculty, staff and students are like a big family because we work together and help each other. During the first eight-month study, I have not only learned the theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills." - Di, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student "The Department of FARE was my graduate program of choice because of the diversified research programs and academic training that is available here. Students have the opportunities to pursue their interests and work on applied researches that help solve real world problems." - Xin, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student "I was initially attracted to the Department of FARE because of the applied approach to economic research, allowing me to think outside the classroom. Working and studying at the University of Guelph presents an opportunity to be a part of an academic community that can provide me with skills and tools needed to succeed in the working world." Read More - Brook, M.Sc. FARE Graduate Student |

















