The RAIN team works closely with collaborators to conduct research and strengthen relationships and capacity for agricultural producers in the Algoma District and across Northern Ontario, and includes specialists with diverse backgrounds in business, agriculture, environmental science, and marketing.
David Thompson, VP of Programs
David leads the Rural Agri-Innovation Network to connect and build the capacity of Algoma farmers, agri-businesses and entrepreneurs through research and market development.
Before joining SSMIC, David was a Research Coordinator for NORDIK Institute (Algoma University) and led several research projects on agricultural co-operatives and the social economy. David has an MBA in Community Economic Development from Cape Breton University and a B.A. (Hons) in Community Economic and Social Development from Algoma University.
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Cathy Bouchard, Manager of RAIN Programs
Cathy is the Manager of RAIN Programs, where she works directly with agri-food entrepreneurs through programs such as; The Sustainable New Agri-Food Products and Productivity (SNAPP) Program, The Northern Ontario Value-Added Agriculture (NOVA) Program, and The Regional Tile Drainage Program. Cathy’s work focuses on identifying sector gaps, building strategic partnerships and mobilizing support to drive innovation, competitiveness, and long term growth in the North.
Cathy has over 25 years of experience in economic development, business administration, entrepreneurship, retail and product development, and client services across both private and not-for-profit sectors.
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Daniel Featherstone, Lake Huron North Project Coordinator
Daniel is the Lake Huron North Project Coordinator, bringing a strong background in ecosystem management and conservation. He holds an Advanced Diploma in Ecosystem Management Technology with a focus on Indigenous perspectives.
Daniel has previously worked with the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority, where he led efforts to manage invasive Phragmites across wetlands and shorelines. He also gained valuable experience in ecological restoration and visitor engagement through his work in Resource Conservation with Parks Canada.
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Cedric Mangeh, RAIN Project Coordinator
Cedric supports a variety of agricultural research projects through project development, data collection and analysis, and collaboration with partners such as Algoma University, Collège Boreal, LUARS, and the University of Guelph. Cedric’s work focuses on advancing sustainable agriculture and innovation across Northern Ontario through applied research and cross-institutional partnerships.
He holds an MSc in Agricultural Mechanization Engineering (Hons) from Hunan Agricultural University in China, along with postgraduate certificates in Project Management (Distinction) and Supply Chain Management (Hons).
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Lexie Kelly, Event Coordinator Intern
Lexie is the Events Coordinator Intern for the 2026 North American Maple Syrup Council Conference and other SSMIC events.
While she is from Sault Ste. Marie, Lexie spent 10 years living in Toronto and Montreal prior to moving back home. She completed her undergraduate degree in Human Geography and Psychology with High Distinction and took some graduate-level coursework in Social Planning and Policy, all from the University of Toronto. In addition, she has a professional background in research, community engagement, and mental health support.
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Our Advisory Committee
As a non-profit organization, RAIN is guided by an advisory committee composed of representatives from agricultural producer groups, local food markets, and regional economic development organizations. This committee helps shape RAIN’s strategic direction and ensures its activities align with the needs of Northern Ontario’s agri-food sector.
- Joe Dales, RHA Ventures (SSM Innovation Centre Board Member Representative)
- Ken MacLeod, Algoma Federation of Agriculture
- Brian Bainborough, Algoma Maple Syrup Producers Association
- Alf Roberts, Algoma Soil and Crop Improvement Association
- Dr. Laura Wyper, Algoma University
- Dr. Pedro Antunes, Algoma University
- Patrick Connolly, Co-op Regionale
- Shawn Heard, East Algoma Community Futures Development Corporation
- Jeff Spence, Red Roof Honey
Our Partners
