Conversations about building strong and economically robust communities can often be focused on bigger cities. An upcoming conference seeks to cultivate, innovate, and collaborate on ideas to improve conditions in rural Texas.
The digital divide, resident migration to larger cities and a lack of healthcare options are some issues rural communities are facing. Small business development and investment is crucial. Environmental issues are increasingly of concern and water resources-related issues are emerging.
Connecting Texas rural communities to state and federal resources and with other communities is key to cultivating prosperity. Joining forces and sharing information will help boost economic opportunity and reinvigorate rural communities. What opportunities exist for rural Texas communities? How can these parts of the state keep up in the modern age? What ideas and practices could help cultivate prosperity in rural Texas?
Guests:
- Thomas Tunstall, research director for theInstitute for Economic Development at the University of Texas at San Antonio
- Matthew Jackson, director of the Small Business Development Center National Information Clearinghouse and a co-chair of the Texas Rural Challenge
- John Henderson, CEO of the Texas Organization of Rural and Community Hospitals
- Larry McManus, senior director for rural economic development at the Texas Department of Agriculture
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*This interview was recorded on Tuesday, June 4.
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