Rural community and economic development is at the core of NEOEDD’s mission. Data shows rural communities often lag behind urban centers in economic development, and that some population groups, including women and BIPOC community members, face additional challenges. NEOEDD’s 2021 Needs Assessment further underscored discrepancies in needs and opportunities in our rural region.  

 In response, with guidance and support from the Ford Institute for Community Building (FICB), NEOEDD is working to develop relationships with new community organizations and deepen existing relationships. Our Rural Community Building work starts with listening to learn, getting to know each other, and understanding a community’s unique needs and story.  

 By working more closely together, NEOEDD can better understand what resources your community would like to help move your efforts forward. Examples include training, workshops, peer-to-peer networking opportunities, and one-on-one coaching. Every community builder group that receives support is also introduced to FICB’s Rural Community Building Evaluation Tools. These tools can help your team understand your current strengths and identify the best pathways forward to help your community thrive!  

 To learn more, contact Sara Miller at [email protected].