Join Us for Investing in Rural America Conference

Mar 24, 2025

Join the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond for the sixth annual Investing in Rural America Conference! One of our two mandates from Congress is maximum employment, and we are committed to understanding the factors that impact labor force participation and economic growth. This is especially important in small towns and rural communities, which make up nearly a quarter of the Fifth District and often lag in these economic outcomes. By engaging with these communities, we can better understand their unique challenges and identify ways to support them. 

This year’s conference theme is Elevating What Works, during which we will spotlight the strategies and solutions that support economic strength in rural communities — embracing empowerment, working together and leveraging assets.

Breakout sessions will be organized into two tracks:

Building Skills for Rural Success: This conference track will focus on empowering rural communities through skill development and resource sharing. Participants will explore innovative strategies and best practices for meeting community needs and leveraging local assets.

Tackling Big Barriers to Labor Force Participation: This conference track addresses critical barriers to labor force participation and explores solutions. Sessions will focus on key challenges, such as childcare, transportation and skills gaps, including pandemic learning loss. Attendees will gain insights into effective strategies for removing obstacles and fostering an environment where all individuals can contribute to the labor market.

We anticipate this event will sell out, so make sure to secure your spot today! 

Register here.