Big Ideas, Small Places a rural gathering with purpose
October 15–17, 2025 | Bonavista Peninsula, Newfoundland & Labrador
What is Big Ideas, Small Places?
Big Ideas, Small Places is not your average conference—it’s a rural retreat-meets-lab-meets-road trip. Over three unforgettable days in one of Canada’s most scenic regions, we’re gathering the doers, thinkers, and makers who are driving change in rural communities.
Set against the rugged coastline and heritage-rich towns of the Bonavista Peninsula, this is a space to exchange bold ideas, spark meaningful connections, and build actionable strategies—all while exploring the creativity and challenges of small places.
Why Attend?
Place-Based Learning: Every session is rooted in Bonavista’s landscape, history, and culture.
Immersive Experiences: Go beyond the breakout room. Hop on a guided tour to local businesses, theatres, heritage sites, and cafés.
Meaningful Connections: No panels or podiums, just real conversations with rural changemakers across Canada.
Fuel for Action: Come home with new ideas, partners, and renewed purpose for your work in rural development.
A Stunning Setting: You’ll learn and connect in a coastal region celebrated for its revival, beauty, and welcoming community
Why Bonavista?
Once a fishing town on the edge of decline, Bonavista is now a leading example of rural revitalization. Historic buildings have become thriving cafés, studios, shops, and social enterprises. Its resilience, beauty, and innovation make it the perfect setting for a new kind of rural conference—one rooted in place and bursting with possibility.
Join Us
Big Ideas, Small Places isn’t just a gathering—it’s a call to reimagine what’s possible from the ground up.
Thanks to our generous sponsors
Meet the changemakers reimagining what’s possible in rural communities. Watch this video to discover how local leaders across the Bonavista Peninsula are transforming rural economic development.
Itinerary
Day 1: Wednesday October 15
Travel from St. John’s to Bonavista (chartered bus or self-travel)
Welcome Gathering: Local storytelling, introductions, evening social
Venue: Garrick Theatre, Bonavista
Day 2: Thursday October 17
Rural Roadtrip: Guided visits to
Port Rexton Brewing
Two Whales Coffee Shop
Rising Tide Theatre
Random Passage Site
Meal at Bonavista Social Club
World Café Discussions
Day 3: Friday October 17
Human Library: Storytelling sessions with rural leaders
Coffee chats with peers, mentors, and support organizations
Facilitated sessions at Port Union’s Coaker Foundation – The Factory
Closing celebration and commitment circle
What’s Included in Your Ticket
Round-trip ground transportation from St. John’s to Bonavista (with All-In ticket)
Transportation to event sites around the Bonavista Peninsula
All lunches and dinners during the event
Access to all sessions, discussions, and site visits
Follow-along reflection journal and program booklet
Built-in time for networking and collaboration
Please note: Accommodation and flights are not included.
Ticket Options
All-In Experience Pass – $900
Includes full ground transportation, all food, and full access to the 3-day experience.
Local Explorer Pass – $400
For Newfoundland-based attendees who will self-travel to Bonavista.
Chamber Connect Pass – $200
For local Chamber of Commerce
members