Rural Economic Development Institute
October 6-8 | November 3-5 | December 8-10
NC Rural Center | 4021 Carya Drive | Raleigh, NC
The NC Rural Center undertakes a number of efforts to ensure that rural communities are equipped with skilled, committed, and informed leaders.

Since its inception, the NC Rural Center has recognized the vital importance of local leadership to the success of our state’s rural areas. The Center’s flagship leadership program, the Rural Economic Development Institute (REDI), has trained over 1,200 leaders.

REDI offers participants collaborative leadership skills and rural community economic development strategies to help them return home and make meaningful impact in their communities. 

Each year REDI welcomes local, state, and federal government staff, nonprofit and faith-based leaders, business owners, elected officials, economic development professionals, and other community leaders.

REDI is a nine-day, intensive, hands-on training program offered over three sessions, spanning three months. This training is held at the NC Rural Center, 4021 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610.  


*Scholarships of up to $3,000 are available. Interested individuals will state their financial need and request a scholarship in this REDI application.


Outcomes
Upon completion of REDI, participants will:

 

1.       Deepen Understanding of Rural Economic Development

·     Learn a model of comprehensive economic development based on the interconnected building blocks.

·     Explore real-world data, assets, and best practices shaping rural economies.

 

2.       Strengthen Leadership Skills

·     Build collaborative leadership habits and sharpen interpersonal communication.

·     Gain confidence in moving ideas to action and advocating for community change.

 

3.       Build Community Engagement Strategies

·     Develop the skills to connect across perspectives and lead with cultural awareness.

·     Learn approaches that promote unity, fairness, and shared ownership in community work.

 

4.       Gain Access to Resources and Networking with Stakeholders

·     Build lasting relationships with fellow leaders and access expert support.

·     Tap into Rural Center programs, learning opportunities, and a strong alumni network.

Timeline
This is a two-step process. You must apply AND, if selected, complete registration and payment. Please hold the training dates October 6-8, November 3-5, and December 8-10 on your calendar so that if you are selected, you will be able to attend. 
  • August 31 | Application period closes.
  • September 4 | Accepted applicants are notified, and registration opens.
  • September 18 | Registration completed ($3,500 training fee is due).
  • October 6-8 | Session I
  • November 3-5 | Session II
  • December 8-10 | Session III
Training Cost
The cost of the 9-day training is $3,500*, which does not include travel, lodging, and some meals.

*We have limited scholarships available. Please make sure to fill out the section at the end of this application if you would like to be considered for a scholarship. No payment is required in order to apply. 
Contact Information





Home Address
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Demographic Information
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Essay Questions
The hallmark of REDI is the people who participate, and we strive to select a diverse class from across the state. We encourage you to be thorough and express yourself fully in your responses to the essay questions below. This will help the selection committee understand your unique experiences and perspectives and conduct a fair and impartial selection process.

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Previous Leadership Experience



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Financial Responsibility
The REDI training fee of $3,500 is due by the registration deadline of September 25. Please note that this fee does not cover travel, lodging, and some meals. We have limited scholarships available for those with significant financial need. 

*Scholarships are applied only to the $3,500 training fee and do not cover travel, lodging, or meals not included in the training.



Limit 1500 characters
Attendance
Class selection and scholarship notifications will be emailed by September 4. If selected, you will be asked to accept or decline your participation. If you accept, you must register and pay by September 18. Please note that the $3,500
registration fee does not include travel, lodging, and some meals.

You are required to participate in the entire training. Refunds will not be issued based on failure to attend. Cancellations made by September 22 will receive a full refund. Refunds for cancellations made after September 22 are at the discretion of the training administrators.

Contact Information