The bill that decides how America eats is on the table again. Up for renewal is the Farm Bill, a $1.5 trillion package of laws that governs everything from agriculture to rural community development, to nutritional assistance, renewable energy and more. The Farm Bill is reauthorized every five years, with the 2018 version set to expire on September 30. The … [Read more...]
Reader Survey
The mission of RuralBusiness.com is to prove meaningful content for all those involved in the essential work of building rural economies. As we look ahead to the new year and determine the best way to deliver on that mission, we need your input. Please take a few minutes to complete our reader survey. Your answers will help us know what topics to focus on and how we can make … [Read more...]
The Cash Conundrum: How to Make the Most of Government Funding in Rural Communities
The lack of resources — despite billions of dollars available to help — is a familiar paradox for many rural communities. Federal funds have flowed to rural areas since the start of the pandemic, thanks to the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The funding was earmarked to address needs exacerbated by the … [Read more...]
Housing Development Alliance: Building a Home for the Future of East Kentucky
Homeownership can help break the cycle of poverty, but for many families, it’s just out of reach. In Perry County, Kentucky, where the poverty rate is near twice the national average, a nonprofit called the Housing Development Alliance has set out to close the gap. “We know people all the time succeed in life without affordable housing, but it’s a lot easier to get a job, … [Read more...]
Big Start Business: How to Attract an Audience From Anywhere
As most entrepreneurs know, starting a business isn’t all that glamorous. The reality is much scrappier — and it often starts with “ugly” reasons, according to serial entrepreneur Meredith Gernigin. Gernigin developed commercial properties in small towns, started and operated three ecommerce businesses, and crowdfunded a small town coffee shop — which she operated for … [Read more...]