1. The Nebraska Model of Rural Development: Partnerships and Leveraging Presented by John C. Allen, Director Center for Applied Rural Innovation University of Nebraska-Lincoln at the Southern Institute for Rural Development Sept. 8-10 Fort Meyers, Florida

3. In Nebraska

4. The Commission’s focus is the rationalization of the government’s rural development efforts. The UNL Board of Regents created the Center as a design to facilitate the University’s rural development efforts. The Network contributes to cooperation and collaboration among rural development entities. The Network laid the ground- work for collaboration among the ultimate Partners. The Foundation secured initial funding for the Partner-ship and plays a critical role in procuring alternative resources to support collaborative efforts Negotiations surrounding the merits and feasibility of the Partnership began between the State of Nebraska, the University of Nebraska, and the Federal Government. UNL President Dennis Smith, Nebraska Governor Ben Nelson, and USDA Representative Art Campbell sign the Charter Agreement creating the Partnership for Rural Nebraska. Amendment of the Partnership for Rural Nebraska Charter to reflect the addition of the Nebraska Development Network as a core Partner. Creation of the Nebraska Development Network Creation of the Nebraska Community Foundation Initial discussions for formation of the Partnership for Rural Nebraska. Creation of the Partnership for Rural Nebraska August 9, 1995 Nebraska Development Network becomes a Partner. Creation of the Rural Development Commission & the Center for Rural Community Revitalization & Development Center for Applied Rural Innovation Created CARI Mission: To help create a rural community and agricultural structure that is economically viable, environmentally sound, socially acceptable and sustainable into the future. Our focus is leadership. Sustainable agriculture, economic and community development through education and research *Department of Environmental Quality Added 2002 The Nebraska Model of Rural Development: An Organizational History 1992 1991199219931994199820012003 Nebraska Rural Initiative Increase business startups or retool those that hold potential for high- paying jobs that are compatible with Nebraska's strengths. Fill emerging vacancies in critical professions. Encourage communities to identify their strengths. Increase the awareness of Nebraska's strengths to attract venture capital and development,

5. Center for Applied Rural Innovation Programs The Center for Applied Rural Innovation (CARI), an interdisciplinary research and extension center, uses a holistic approach to development that focuses on the economic and social interdependence of farming, communities and families CARI is the focal point within the University of Nebraska for communities and individuals to obtain information and program support needed to enhance their economic and social well-being. Made up of a team of professionals, CARI has developed some of the most community-driven and impact-oriented programs focusing on rural viability in the world.

6. The Nebraska Rural Poll Begun in 1996, Nebraska Rural Poll findings quickly made their way into news reports, legislative committee hearings, and planning by government agencies and corporations. The Nebraska EDGE (Enhancing, Developing and Growing Entrepreneurs) is a community development strategy designed to enhance the economic vitality of a community

7. coNEcting Nebraska This team of extension educators conducts community-based technology training and assists communities in technology planning and assessment. Sustainable Agriculture Projects include research on the Integrated Farm at the Agricultural Research and Development Center near Mead, Nebraska, education in agroecology and other integrative themes, and outreach programs related to land use.

8. Nebraska Cooperative Development Center The Center assists agricultural producers and multi-owner businesses with cooperative development efforts. Initiative for Small Farm Profitability Designed to increase small and mid-size farm profitability, this four state initiative is a unique and powerful blend of market research, economic analysis, case studies, and most importantly, farmer and rancher “clusters” or groups. Community Leadership CARI programs strive to improve decision making and strategic planning skills of individuals.

9. Collaborations  CARI Fellows  Rural Policy Research Institute (RUPRI)  Partnership for Rural Nebraska (PRN) The Nebraska Rural Institute Rural News Bits

10. Funding Key Assumptions 1.Rural Development is multi-disciplinary 2.Research must support outreach 3.Funding provided for core activities 4.Program funding developed through grants and contracts Lessons Learned 1.Keep working with partnerships 2.Non-partisianship is very important 3.Take a short and long-term view 4.Focus on those areas you have expertise in

11. Contact John C. Allen, Director Center for Applied Rural Innovation jallen1@unl.edu http://cari.unl.edu