Welcome to the Rural Ontario Institute
The Rural Ontario Institute develops leaders, initiates dialogue, supports collaboration and promotes action on issues and opportunities facing rural Ontario.

Highlights
OCA's Leadership Development Program Announces First Class Graduates
In collaboration with the Rural Ontario Institute (ROI), the Ontario Cattlemen's Association (OCA) committed in the fall of 2011, to the development and implementation of a pilot program to recruit and train a group of visionary organization leaders who are capable of moving the Ontario beef industry forward. The first class of the program commenced in January, 2012 and OCA is pleased to announce that upon completion of the spring session in mid-April, 15 participants have successfully graduated from the program.
Devoting more time on one’s greatest strengths or assets can lead to positive change in individuals, their organizations and their communities. By utilizing these resources and investing in themselves, a community can work towards the creation of a strong, positive and vibrant future. Steps to Leadership is a package of three leadership programs that strengthens participants’ innate and learned leadership abilities and engages them to take action.
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Investing in the future of rural communities
During these times of economic uncertainty, it is refreshing to see rural leaders invest in the future of rural communities. A record setting $92,000 was raised when attendees dug deep into their wallets for a great cause at the 2012 “Red Carpet Affair” Dream Auction in support of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) on February 11, 2012.
Some of the photos taken at the event have been posted to the Rural Ontario Institute’s Flickr account for your viewing pleasure. Relive the Red Carpet moment by clicking here
More ways to connect on the Rural Ontario Institute website!

ruralontarioinstitute.ca has been completely revamped to provide you with more ways to share information, get all the latest news and views, and interact with others who have a passion for what’s happening in rural Ontario.
Check out our new Networks page or explore the new Community Exchange section, with its Bulletin Board, Events page, Photo Library and much more!
Click here to read more.