The Center for Rural Economic Development & Emerging Technologies has established a strategic framework designed to empower rural Utah communities through research-based education, workforce innovation, and entrepreneurial support. The initiative aims to foster sustainable economic growth and ensure broad access to emerging technologies for residents living outside urban centers.
Strategic Pillars for Growth
The Center's core identity is built upon five strategic pillars intended to serve as a foundation for rural economic growth. According to the Center, these commitments include serving as a trusted partner for rural expertise in emerging technologies and creating modern learning pathways to prepare the workforce for a digital economy.
Additionally, the Center aims to facilitate a connected rural ecosystem by bringing together communities, entrepreneurs, and industry to develop innovative solutions. The framework also prioritizes applied research to inform job growth and business expansion, alongside a commitment to interpreting research-based information to guide policy and practice in support of strong rural economies.
Priority Action Areas
To achieve these goals, the Center has identified several immediate action areas for resource concentration. A primary priority involves expanding digital access and literacy by increasing broadband adoption and delivering skills training for remote work, telehealth, education, and commerce.
Another focus area is the development of a skilled and resilient workforce through specialized training and micro-credentialing in knowledge work that aligns with Utah's targeted industries. The Center also intends to support rural entrepreneurs and small businesses through mentoring, leadership development, and technical assistance for e-commerce to diversify rural economies.
Core Organizational Values
The Center's organizational values emphasize a "rural first" approach, where every program begins by prioritizing the unique needs, assets, and aspirations of rural Utah communities. The organization also operates under the principle of staying curious by exploring novel practices and emerging technologies to maintain competitiveness.
Other core values include the belief that progress is built through relationships of trust with local leaders and statewide networks. The Center also emphasizes rigorous evaluation, using systematic research and measurable results to guide decisions, and maintains a commitment to ensuring information and resources reach all Utahns.
Specialized Economic Programs
To implement its mission, the Center has launched several featured programs targeting specific economic needs. The Rural Online Initiative serves as a workforce development program designed to provide residents with the knowledge and skills required to work remotely, helping to support rural economies through remote employment.
The E-Commerce Accelerator is another specialized program designed to assist agricultural and rural businesses. This program provides personalized training to help these businesses navigate the digital world and increase sales revenue through e-commerce platforms.
Consulting and Vision
Beyond direct training, the Center provides strategy and consulting services to help Utah leaders strengthen local economies. These services include support for grant development, workforce planning, broadband planning, and entrepreneurship support.
By turning community goals into measurable outcomes, the Center seeks to create a thriving rural economy where education, opportunity, and innovation allow individuals and families to prosper without being limited by geographic location.
Measuring Long-Term Impact
To ensure long-term success, the Center has committed to measuring, sharing, and scaling its impact. This includes tracking results in broadband usage, job placements, business growth, and various education pathways.
By sharing stories of success, the Center aims to secure further investment and expand its programming across Utah and beyond, while continuing to collaborate with local leaders, broadband providers, and statewide agencies to align resources.
