A discussion between Danielle Nierenberg (President of Food Tank) and Thomas Pesek (Senior Liaison Officer, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) kicked off the day. This discussion focused around the Right to Foods, and spotlighted the growing global crisis of acute food insecurity, driven by climate change, conflict, inequality, and economic instability—-what Danielle Nierenberg of Food Tank called “cascading crises happening all at once, and all the time.”

The session emphasized the urgent need to recognize access to nutritious, culturally appropriate, and diverse foods as a fundamental right-—and called for collaborative, innovative solutions to address these complex and growing challenges.

The Summit also underscored the importance of supporting farmers and innovators. Canadian entrepreneurs featured in the "Canadian Innovation in Practice" panel (including my near and dear Revel Cider) shared that forming the right partnerships was pivotal to their progress. Effective communication and deliberate relationship-building were highlighted as essential for fostering innovation in the food sector.

While food system challenges are global, solutions must be rooted in local realities. This session emphasized the importance of regionally tailored approaches that reflect the specific needs and priorities of communities. Indigenous innovators highlighted how traditional knowledge, food practices, and community-led initiatives—-such as greenhouses, country food programs, and new products featuring Indigenous ingredients—-are strengthening food security and reconnecting people to place. The session underscored that meaningful, lasting solutions emerge when local voices lead the way.

The closing session highlighted Canada’s unique strengths in addressing global food challenges—from a thriving tech sector and innovative farmers to growing access to capital and talent. Speakers emphasized that Canada is well positioned to lead a renaissance in agriculture and food systems, and the key ingredients for innovation are already here. Moving forward, collaboration, equity, and bold thinking will be essential to building a food system that ensures the right to nutritious and sustainable food for all.