What is Economic Development in Modern America? A Field Guide for Small Towns and Rural Places

Field Guide to Economic Development Cover Image

When I say “economic development”, what comes to mind? Is it big industrial plants and multi-million dollar tax incentives? I wouldn’t be surprised. That is so 1960s. Welcome to the later 2020s. For many years now, especially in small towns and rural places, economic development looks a lot more ordinary—and a lot more interesting. It […]

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Business Retention in Small Towns: The Quiet Powerhouse of Rural Job Growth

Main Street in a small rural American town at sunrise, shop owners opening businesses, illustrating business retention and community vitality.

In most of rural America, job creation isn’t about attracting new employers—it’s about making sure the businesses you already have can thrive. In our previous article, we explored how a diverse rural economy—spanning manufacturing, tourism, public services, and more—provides a strong foundation for resilience. In coming weeks we’ll explore entrepreneurship and the creative economy, and […]

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Rethinking the Rural Economy: New Paths, New Possibilities for Growth

Rural Economy - Vibrant Rural American Main Street with a bakery and bookstore.

When people picture small town and rural America, agriculture is often the first—and sometimes only—industry that comes to mind. But the truth is far richer and more complex. From manufacturing and mining to tourism and public service, rural economies and economic development across the United States are powered by a wide array of industries that […]

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