Bruce Roberts

Bruce Roberts, Ph.D., P.Ag. is a native of New Brunswick and has studied Business, Policy and Agricultural Economics at Mount Allison University, Nova Scotia Agricultural College, University of Guelph and the University of Illinois. He interspersed his education with employment throughout Eastern Canada in agriculture, the retail food industry and as a small business banker. Bruce has a strong interest in rural economic development and has been employed and consulted in many rural-related sectors. He was also a member of a Provincial Working Group to design a transition program for the Nova Scotia agricultural industry.

Bruce has carried out research studies of agricultural contracts, commercial credit, commodity pricing, small business financial structure, and value chains. Prior to attending the University of Illinois, he worked as a small business lender with Royal Bank of Canada in Ontario and Nova Scotia. His interests are in Rural Economic Development and Finance, and are directed toward the integration of all industries into a strong rural economy. His background as a business lender and owner of several businesses provides him the ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

His consulting activities have included projects related to:

• Feasibility studies and business planning for individual businesses and organizations.
• Market assessments and strategic plans for new and expanding companies.
• Strategic planning for non-profit organizations.
• Alternative energy opportunities.
• Rural development initiatives and their potential to enhance economic activity.
• The interface between agriculture and the environment.
• Government program evaluation and policy development.
• Access to financing in rural areas and business challenges in securing sufficient capital to maintain a viable rural economy.