AURI will be sharing information with some leading economic developers at a premier event held in the nation’s capitol. AURI has been invited to participate and share information on its programs and activities at the Rural Wealth Creation and Livelihoods Conference in Washington D.C.
The conference is convened by the Economic Research Service of the USDA and the Ford 
Foundation, and brings together a diverse group of practitioners, researchers, policymakers, funders and intermediaries. The goal is to build shared understanding and to advance on-the-ground practice, research and policy focused on how to create and maintain wealth to the benefit of rural communities, businesses and families.
“We are thrilled to have been asked to participate in this national conference because we will be speaking with other professionals and experts from around the country on rural wealth creation,” says Teresa Spaeth, AURI executive director. “It is a highly selective process to participate, but it gives AURI an opportunity to share what we have learned about creating economic opportunities in rural areas.”
AURI will highlight successful programs and activities used to generate, select and implement innovative ideas. AURI’s novel Rural Innovation Network model will also be showcased. The Rural Innovation Network model integrates technical and scientific assistance, market development, market research, business planning and targeted network outreach with small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs to increase their likelihood of success.
The Rural Wealth Creation and Livelihoods National Conference will be held October 3-5, 2011 in Washington, D.C.
