To achieve effective grantmaking is a primary goal of foundation funding.  Underwriting grants that result in authentic and lasting impact in rural communities can be particularly challenging but equally rewarding. This session will explore the state of rural communities and the type of grantmaking that can leverage positive change.  Real life examples will illustrate how funders can become more effective grant partners in rural communities.  Attendees will:

• learn a framework to focus funding in rural communities 

• consider the promise of impact funding strategies based on specific projects from the Southwest 

• understand the process for effective community engagement and its success at enabling strategic visioning and investment 

• hear examples of communities and funders working together to grow more successful and prosperous communities.

 

Presenter:  Don Macke, Co-Director, Center for Rural Entrepreneurship, Lincoln, NE.

Session Designers:  Karin Gerstenhaber, Shelley Sweatt, Abel Wurmnest