This article was written and contributed by Zachary Kennedy, Community & Economic Development Specialist, U of I Extension Many people think of "rural" as farmland, low population density, and open idyllic landscapes. To be certain, there are many ways to define rural, and...
A business plan states expectations, defines risks and explains how resources will be most effectively utilized.[i] My definition of a Business Plan...
I recently reviewed the 2016 Forbes' rankings of "Best Countries For Business" and pondered America's slide from the top spot in 2006 to number 24. The respected ...
There is no doubt that economic development in rural communities is changing. The prospect of bringing large industrial firms into small, rural communities becomes ever more elusive. Eisinger (1998) said that "third-wave economic development strategies have emphasized the need for...
Data for Decision Makers Resource Guide by Zach Kennedy, Extension Specialist Community and Economic Development Data, when used properly, can improve the effectiveness of your organization or local government. The ability to tell a "data story" is important to understanding the context in which...
One of the pressing issues for rural communities today is the loss of young residents. Many rural communities are currently working on ways to attract and retain youth in rural areas. One of the main strategies thought to attract & retain youth is "actively engaging and consulting youth in...
Canton recently participated in a North Central Regional Center for Rural Development study exploring factors related to a community's success in creating a resilient and vibrant downtown. The Resilient Downtowns Case Study Series was designed to highlight best practices regarding small-town...
Are you interested in learning the how-tos & possibilities of developing a creative economy in your community? On March 5th, Pam Schallhorn, University of Illinois Extension, Community & Economic Development Educator was interviewed in a podcast on Creekside with Don &...
Those who follow economic trends frequently look at entrepreneurial activity as an indicator of economic health. While opinions vary on the current health of entrepreneurship in the U.S. and around the world, there is agreement on the importance of this business sector. Economists applaud the job...
Can arts drive rural economic development? This is a question that I continue to ask myself as I expand Developing the Creative Economy (DCE)that will be presented next in Greenville, IL on February 2, 2017. As some of you are aware, the DCE program is based in part on the work...
