U of G, City Team Up to 'Grow Guelph'
September 04, 2008 - News Release
The University of Guelph, the City of Guelph and local biotech companies are teaming up to encourage people to "Grow Guelph."
They are launching the new slogan and developing marketing strategies to build greater brand recognition for the life sciences and agri-food opportunities in Guelph and Wellington County.
"We want to let people know that Guelph is the place to invest in all things agriculture," said Sue Bennett, U of G's director of community relations.
"'Grow Guelph' sends a simple and clear message that this region is dedicated to promoting agri-food, from the food we eat to how it's produced to new inventions."
The campaign is also about protecting and promoting the region's agricultural roots, whether it's as a tourism destination or new investment opportunities.
“Guelph and Wellington has been a recognized centre for agricultural innovation for more than a century,” said Guelph Mayor Karen Farbridge. “By coming together under the Grow Guelph brand, we will be positioned to build on our strengths and attract new investment, talent, research activities, businesses, and tourism.”
"Grow Guelph" will be officially launched during the 2008 Canada's Outdoor Farm Show. It runs Sept. 9 to 11 in Woodstock. Guelph research and inventions that have spurred local economic development will be highlighted.
At more than 2200 square feet, the “Grow Guelph” tent includes companies such as Purification Research Technologies, Ontario Soybean Growers, OnTrace Agri-food Traceability and MaRS Landing, to name a few.
A "Garden of Success" display will include U of G field crops and horticultural varieties that have resulted in higher yields, improved quality or better disease resistance.
U of G researchers and local agri-food companies will also be on hand explain how plants are being developed to improve health and fight disease, to grow food on Mars and even to produce materials for a "green" biocar.
Other exhibits will showcase consumer and manufacturing biomaterials produced by emerging companies near Guelph, as well as explain how agriculture benefits everyone through carbon fixing and environmental quality improvements.
Local tourist attractions and niche agri-food companies from Guelph-Wellington will highlight local attractions, festivals, destinations and specialty products from the area.
Barbara Maly, a business development specialist for the City of Guelph, said teaming up with the University and local agri-food companies for "Grow Guelph" was a logical choice.
"We are pleased to be part of the Grow Guelph initiative as this further supports our economic objectives to grow our vibrant business investment environment focused in agri-food and life sciences while establishing strong connections within the research and industry community."
She added that bringing everyone under a shared umbrella allows for increased exposure, networking, cross-promotions and shared resources. "Working together, we are in a stronger position than we are individually."
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs: Lori Bona Hunt, 519-824-4120, Ext. 53338/l.hunt@exec.uoguelph.ca, or Deirdre Healey, Ext. 56982/d.healey@exec.uoguelph.ca.
