2026 Rural Summit Awards

Who inspires you? Who has made a major impact? Whose work for rural people and places do you think deserves statewide recognition? 

Since 2018, the Rural Awards have acknowledged exceptional work being done by agencies, community-based organizations, groups, state-level elected officials, and individuals working to improve the overall quality of life of our state's rural people and places. 

Nominations for the 2026 Rural Awards are now being accepted through Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. These awards recognize rural people who have made a significant impact on rural economic development through their leadership. Whether by leading local or statewide efforts to influence policies in support of rural economic development or by inspiring others to work together to improve their communities, these nominees exemplify an unwavering commitment to our rural communities. 

Awardees will be publicly recognized at the 2026 Rural Summit, on the NC Rural Center's website and through social media and other channels. 

Please direct any questions to events@ncruralcenter.org. 
Rural Entrepreneur of the Year

This award recognizes an entrepreneur who is making a significant impact on the local economy through job creation, sales, and revenue generation. This person serves as a mentor to other entrepreneurs and takes a leadership role in the community. The entrepreneur must have a business, located in one of the 78 rural counties in North Carolina, which currently generates revenue and demonstrates growth and long-term potential. The nominee should have made a significant impact in the local economy through job creation, sales, or increased overall economic vitality.

Excellence in Regional Collaboration

This award recognizes a person or organization that has developed and implemented innovative collaborations across sectors and/or regions in order to secure a more vibrant future for all people in their communities. The nominee will have demonstrated an understanding of the interconnectedness of our rural places and demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering inclusive partnerships that equitably and sustainably address community needs across the region(s) they serve.

Community Bank of the Year

This award is given to a financial institution providing excellent customer service to North Carolina's small businesses. The winner of this award works closely with the NC Rural Center's loan program, reducing private lenders' loan risk to help fund the creation and expansion of small businesses throughout North Carolina. 

Rural Leader of the Year

This award recognizes a REDI or Homegrown Leader alumnus who, through strong leadership, hard work, and dedication has enhanced the quality of life in rural North Carolina and made significant improvements in his or her community, region, and/or the state. This individual is committed to building partnerships and engaging with all of the citizens in their community.

CDFI of the Year 

This award is presented to a community development financial institution that demonstrates exceptional commitment to supporting North Carolina's small business and communities. The recipient of this award proves innovative lending solutions, strong customer service, and strategic partnerships that help fund business growth, create jobs, and strengthen local economies across the state. 

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