This curated event is an in-person learning & action opportunity grounded in Aspen CSG’s Rural Development Hubs model.
As defined in our seminal 2019 report linked above, Aspen CSG sees Rural Development Hubs as a specific set of organizations doing development differently in rural America. They are the main players advancing asset-based, local/regional wealth-building approaches to rural community economic development in this country.
Hubs can be CDFIs, community foundations, community action agencies, community colleges — any entity focused on connecting dots across their region to do development differently guided by a set of key strategies.
These strategies or ways of working include working regionally, building capacity and trust, fostering collaboration, taking risks and the long view, and looking for systems gaps. Some Hubs are established, while others are just starting. Some entities may not even recognize themselves as a Hub, but they do the connecting work regions need to advance equitable prosperity.
The primary goals of the learning exchange will be to:
- Revisit the concept and value of Rural Development Hubs and explore the state of the field.
- Discuss the impact and potential unmet needs of Hubs as drivers of rural innovation, strategy, and regional service delivery.
- Learn from, network with, and advise each other on key challenges and solutions.
- Share insight and workshop recommendations for funders and decision-makers to strengthen the capacity of and support for Hubs.
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