A New Approach to Rural Economic Development: 
​Building Capacity to Drive Equitable Growth 
Nathan Ohle, CEO, Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP)
​For years, rural communities have been the backbone of the United States’ economy, providing the raw materials to build the country and the sustenance to feed ourselves. Unfortunately today, many are falling behind.  The uneven nature of economic recovery in our nation has resulted in vastly different outcomes for individuals and families based on where they live.

Overcoming these barriers is possible, but requires a long-term commitment to strategic, locally-led, asset-based planning, policymaking, and investing.  This brief addresses opportunities to embrace a new approach to rural economic development – one rooted in promoting strong leadership, leveraging local and regional assets, lifting up small businesses, and supporting innovation and connectivity to drive prosperity.