HPMA Event: Building a local food system in greater Davidson County

Food is the most essential supply chain — and like energy, transportation, and labor, it must be reliable, resilient, and locally supported. This presentation explores how strengthening our regional food economy directly benefits business and industry through enhanced workforce health, reduced supply-chain risk, and long-term economic stability.

We will examine the challenges of modern agriculture, the vulnerabilities created by centralized food production, and why decentralized, regional food systems are critical for future prosperity and community resilience. Attendees will gain insight into how manufacturing principles and a national-security mindset apply to food, and why supporting local agriculture strengthens the workforce, supports healthy aging, and builds a sustainable future for all.

Local food is not just good for the community — it's a strategic investment in regional strength, economic competitiveness, and long-term stability.

Speaker: Grace Kanoy

About Speaker Grace Kanoy

Grace Kanoy is a community connector, storyteller, and local food advocate who helps bring farms and families together through the Davidson County Local Food Network. By day, she’s a filmmaker and video producer specializing in storytelling, a skill she leverages to amplify the voices of farmers, markets, and local food champions. Whether on screen or in print through the Local Food Guide, Grace is passionate about using stories to inspire healthier living and stronger communities.