Rural Economic Development Institute

The future of rural North Carolina resides in the hands of leaders who can bring about positive change, especially during the most challenging economic times.

Since 1989, nearly 900 North Carolinians have participated in the center’s annual signature rural economic development leadership training program – the Rural Economic Development Institute.

Graduates of the program become part of a larger alumni network of leaders. They also have the opportunity to participate in advanced training and continuing education.

The 2013 institute class will begin March 13, 2013. To learn more, download the 2013 REDI application brochure.   

To apply, please complete the 2013 application.

Download fact sheet

Watch our video, "We are REDI, You are REDI"

 Frequently Asked Questions

How does the program work?
What does REDI offer?
Who is this leadership training for?
How much time does it take?
How do I enroll?
When and where is it offered?
What is the deadline for applying?
How much does it cost?
How do I know if REDI is right for me?
What other leadership opportunities are available?

How does the program work?

The Rural Economic Development Institute, or REDI, addresses leadership in two ways. The first provides participants with techniques that are designed to enhance their skills as community leaders. The second focuses on increasing participants' knowledge of economic and community development strategies and equipping them with the tools they need to tackle rural issues.
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What does REDI offer?

• A comprehensive approach to economic development. The program highlights all aspects of economic development, including the four building blocks – business development, workforce development, physical infrastructure and civic and social infrastructure. In each of these areas, participants explore critical issues, emerging trends and promising strategies.


• A high-quality curriculum. The program employs a curriculum that reflects current information on issues, trends, data, resources and cutting-edge theory and practice in leadership, strategic planning and emerging technologies.


• Practical application learning. The training sessions and homework assignments afford participants opportunities to practice new leadership skills and apply what they learn to the problems and issues in their communities.


• A participatory learning process. The institute brings people and knowledge together through a participatory learning process that is stimulating, challenging and fun. Participants not only learn from faculty members with extensive backgrounds in leadership training and community economic development, but also from one another, discovering new ways of thinking as they share information, experiences and challenges. The institute also features dynamic presenters from a range of academic institutions and economic and community development organizations.


• Collaboration. A diverse class provides a forum for rural leaders to discuss issues from varying perspectives, explore regional and cultural differences, and problem-solve ways to overcome the barriers of race, age and socioeconomic status that are obstacles to economic and community development.


• Networking. Participants develop a network of professional relationships and friendships that is fundamental to generating and sustaining rural development initiatives.

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Who is this leadership training for?

REDI is designed for rural leaders who are active in decision-making roles in their communities. The center accepts individuals with a high level of commitment. We also strive to select a class that reflects the diversity of rural North Carolina in terms of geography, race, gender, institutional setting and leadership roles. Elected and appointed officials, businessmen and women, professional staff in community and economic development, civic and grassroots leaders, and minorities are encouraged to apply.
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How much time does it take?

REDI consists of nine days of classes, three days at a time, over three months. In between classes, participants must complete homework assignments and are given the opportunity to put their skills into action back in their communities.