Join the New Generation

The Rural Center’s New Generation Initiative is up and running. The initiative is a three-year, $3.6 million effort to transform rural communities through youth and young adult engagement. Encompassing four distinct programs, it offers opportunities in entrepreneurship development, on-the-job training, leadership development and community service.  Learn how you can become involved.

Apply now:

New Generation Ventures: Applications accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more.

28 complete leadership program

Twenty-eight rural leaders completed the Rural Center’s Rural Economic Development Institute in May. The three-month institute enhances leadership skills and increases understanding of economic and community development. Read more.

$8.6 million in grants to create nearly 900 jobs

The Rural Center has awarded 53 grants totaling $8.6 million to create jobs, provide clean water and assist with economic development in rural counties. The grants will create 894 jobs and aid projects in 31 counties. The center’s board of directors approved the grants April 18.  Read more.

Refresh your data 

The online Rural Data Bank has been updated with the most current statistics available from the 2010 U.S. Census, the American Community Survey, Employment Security Commission of North Carolina and other state and federal sources. Standardized profiles are available for each N.C. county and municipality and for county business data. Custom data searches allow you to create your own report.