Rural communities play a larger role in Indiana’s economy than they often get credit for.
That’s according to an article written by Knox County Indiana Economic Development CEO Chris Pfaff and published by Inside Indiana Business. In the piece, Pfaff points to national data showing rural America contributes more than two trillion dollars to the U.S. economy. He also notes research suggesting people living in rural areas often see more stable economic mobility than those in cities.
Pfaff writes that entrepreneurship is a major factor in whether rural communities can turn those strengths into long-term economic growth. He notes rural areas often benefit from lower operating costs, available workforce talent, and proximity to larger markets, but says those advantages don’t automatically lead to success without support.
One of the tools Pfaff highlights is Indiana’s new Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The office operates under the Secretary of Commerce and is intended to help entrepreneurs connect with funding, technical assistance, and research partnerships across the state.
The article points to programs such as innovation grants, mentorship networks, and partnerships with Indiana’s public universities, including Purdue University and Indiana University. Pfaff says the goal is to make those resources available to rural and small-town entrepreneurs, not just businesses in major cities.
Pfaff also emphasizes the role of local partnerships in building stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems. He points to schools, healthcare providers, major employers, and broadband infrastructure as pieces that can help support new and growing businesses.
In the article, Pfaff writes that rural communities don’t need to copy urban economic models to succeed. Instead, he says long-term growth can come from building on local strengths and creating opportunities rooted in the needs and assets of each community.
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