Montana State University Extension is now accepting applications from rural communities across Montana to participate in Reimagining Rural, a three-part series designed to empower small towns to build stronger partnerships, access resources, and pursue bold community development initiatives. The program is scheduled for Feb. 4, 11, and 18, 2024.
Reimagining Rural encourages local volunteers and leaders to gather in person to hear from experts on rural development via Zoom. Following the presentations, each community engages in discussions to explore how the ideas presented could be tailored to their unique local needs.
“Small towns are essential to Montana’s identity, but many face challenges adapting to change,” said Jennifer Anderson, MSU Extension community vitality associate and program coordinator. “This program was created to provide rural leaders with tools to shape a brighter future for everyone in their communities.”
Since its inception in 2019, Reimagining Rural has supported 53 communities. Past participants have launched initiatives such as downtown master plans, community branding efforts, grant funding applications, and local events to promote growth and engagement.
The program is hosted by the MSU Extension Community Vitality program in collaboration with the Montana Community Foundation. Anderson emphasized that many communities have used Reimagining Rural as a springboard for larger-scale projects and long-term development goals.
Applications for the program are open now, offering Montana’s rural towns an opportunity to inspire positive change and strengthen their foundations for the future.