Explore the intricacies of building a robust regional food economy in this comprehensive conference talk. Delve into the concept of food hubs, community strategies, and entrepreneurship in the local food system. Learn about the challenges and opportunities faced by food-based businesses, including insights from successful ventures like Bagel Street Deli and Jackie's Pub Brewery. Discover the importance of customer support, local suppliers, and community engagement in fostering a thriving food ecosystem. Examine the role of educational institutions like Fire Aki College in supporting the local food industry and improving completion rates. Gain valuable lessons and advice from experienced entrepreneurs on navigating cultural diversity, leveraging regional assets, and measuring political capital. Understand the potential for spreading successful local food models and the impact of living in food-centric communities like Columbus.