Posted: July 15, 2021

This assembly was an examination of the role that equity plays in sustaining entrepreneurial ecosystems, tourism, and revitalization. View the recording from the Rural Community Action Assembly.

View the event recording and presentation slides.

Speakers presented on economic development and small business models from outside the commonwealth, giving attendees the opportunity to consider the implementation of these models in Pennsylvania. Leaders and staff from foundations, community development financial institutions (CDFIs), local and regional governments, economic development entities, and anchor institutions were encouraged to register and participate in this learning and networking opportunity.

Speakers included:

  • Donna Gambrell, President and CEO, Appalachian Community Capital
  • Martinique Lewis, President, Black Travel Alliance
  • Jarrod McCartney, Director, Red Cloud Tourism and Commerce, The National Willa Cather Center
  • Justine Lindemann, Assistant Professor in Community Development and Resilience, Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences

This virtual meeting is a continuation of the Rural Community Action Assemblies begun in 2020. This series focuses on actionable research and programmatic models to promote a strong and equitable recovery from the impacts of the pandemic on rural communities. This series is cohosted by the Philadelphia Fed's Community Development and Regional Outreach Department, Penn State's Center for Economic and Community Development, and the Center for Rural Pennsylvania.