The Rural Innovation and Development team has a comprehensive mission focused on strengthening communities, economies, and businesses throughout Nebraska. Their approach emphasizes leadership and collaboration, particularly through the Rural Prosperity Nebraska (RPN) initiative, which supports local economies, community leadership, and development efforts across the state. This team’s work is deeply connected to the University’s outreach mission, fostering partnerships with communities, industries, and global collaborators to broaden engagement and ensure that research, teaching, and outreach initiatives reflect local and global needs.
Community Economic Development Courses
Undergraduate Rural Development Courses
- AECN 276 - Rural Sociology
- AECN 376 - Rural Community Economics
Rural Economic and Community Vitality Graduate Certificate Program
12 credit hours, six hours of required core courses and six hours of electives
Public Participation & Engagement (P2E)
10 Module Non-Credit Microcredential (Badge) Course
Community Programs and Tools
Buy Fresh/Buy Local® Nebraska
A member-based marketing, promotion, and education program
Marketing Hometown America (MHA)
Engaging Community for Newcomer Attraction and Resident Retention
Entrepreneurial Community Action Process (ECAP)
Focusing community for Positive Change
Nebraska Cooperative Development Center
Providing Assistance to Multi-Owner Enterprises
Collaborations
Nebraska Rural Poll
Annual Survey of Rural Nebraskans
Rural Prosperity Nebraska
Nebraska Extension Team for Rural Community Development
Nebraska Broadband
Broadband Industry resources
