Thrive Oxford Honoured at ROMA

Tuesday, 27 January 2026 at 11:45

It was a good ROMA conference for Thrive Oxford, as they were honoured for the work they do.

OXFORD COUNTY - It was an award-winning Rural Ontario Municipalities Association conference for Thrive Oxford.

They were given the Rural Community Award for 2026, which was part of the Rural Inspiration Awards. Minister of Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson, speaks to why Thrive Oxford was honoured.

"Thrive Oxford is being recognized for their efforts focused on assisting entrepreneurs thrive, just not by building their business, but by building a future in rural communities throughout the County of Oxford” In particular, this program helps women entrepreneurs develop the skill set to start and grow sustainable small businesses, with the goal of positively impacting the local economy in their communities."

Minister Thompson adds that she is excited to see the work Thrive Oxford is doing.

"We applaud Thrive Oxford for enabling opportunities for entrepreneurs to plan for and build successful businesses in communities throughout Oxford County."

General Manager of Community Futures Oxford, Allan Simm, shares the reaction that the organization had about the award.

"We’re grateful for this recognition from the Minister and for the opportunity to represent the work happening in rural Ontario. At Community Futures Oxford, it’s both our role and our privilege to strengthen local entrepreneurs through access to skill-building, capital, and trusted support. Through initiatives like Thrive Oxford and our ongoing International Women’s Day events, we’re proud to help create spaces where women entrepreneurs can learn, connect, and lead."

MPP for Oxford, Ernie Hardeman, also talks about his reaction.

"I am proud to congratulate Thrive Oxford on receiving the inaugural Rural Inspiration Award. This recognition highlights the leadership and innovation of women entrepreneurs who are strengthening our rural economy while making a meaningful difference in the lives of people across Oxford County."

Rural Inspiration 2026 was an inaugural event at the conference, and ROMA is hosted every year in Toronto.