Agritourism Summit

If you’re a Michigan farmer, municipal official, agritourism business or other community leader with an interest in rural entrepreneurship and economic development, this groundbreaking event is for you. The intent is to share information and best practices while cultivating conversation and communication.

What is agritourism?
Agritourism encompasses entertainment and leisure experiences that contribute to a healthy lifestyle, strong family values and quality of life.  Agritourism also focuses on finding the best route to encourage rural and regional economic development while preserving the landscape of each location. Agritourism cultivates strong local communities by connecting the tradition and heritage of area’s inhabitants with the best options for economic growth.

Register for the 2024 Agritourism Summit and Pre-Summit Events

Pre-Summit Farm Tour and Welcome Soirée: Tuesday, May 7th
The pre-summit farm tour includes visits to multiple agritourism operations in Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties including Jacobs Farm; Leelanau Cheese (awarded Super Gold at the World Cheese Awards in Spain for their Raclette);  9 Bean Rows Farmstead, Café, Bakery, and CSA;  Tandem Ciders’s production facility; and ends at Farm Club for the Welcome Soirée. The tour includes round-trip coach transportation, lunch at 9 Bean Rows, and on-site food and beverage samples. The Farm Club Welcome Soirée features two complimentary drink tickets, appetizers, and networking.

Agritourism Summit: Wednesday, May 8th
9:30am-4:30pm at Hagerty Center, 715 E Front St, Traverse City
The Agritourism Summit Agenda includes:

• Why Agritourism? Stories from Across the Region
• Economics of Farming: A Changing Agricultural Landscape
• The state of agritourism in Michigan: State and Regional Trends
• The role of Michigan Right to Farm Act and Farm Market GAAMPS in Agritourism
• Keynote: Collaboration and Connectivity in Agritourism
• Municipal Examples: Planning and Zoning for Agritourism’s Elusive Form and Function
• Navigating the Regulatory Corn Maze: Peer-to-Peer Learning and Engagement
• Agritourism: What is Needed for Success, Removing Barriers, and Navigating the Maze
• Resources to Support Growers

Complete summit agenda and pre-event information available on the registration page