In November 2023, the Center for EmPowering Communities convened applied researchers and practitioners committed to supporting rural communities. Funded by the Heising-Simons Foundation, this gathering focused on shaping a vision for rural prosperity, identifying existing initiatives that align with it, and outlining enabling actions to bring it to life.

The convening laid the foundation for ongoing efforts to support rural leadership, economic growth, and sustainable development—ensuring that rural voices shape the policies and investments that affect them. Leading up to the session, participants provided feedback on an initial draft vision, refining it to better reflect Michigan’s rural landscape. Discussions explored past and ongoing projects, highlighting opportunities for collaboration. Participants identified key enabling efforts and potential funding sources to support long-term progress.

The convening identified the following key opportunities to advance rural prosperity:

• Expanding Planning Resources and Capacity
• Strengthening State Leadership and Policy
• Promoting Urban-Rural Regional Approaches
• Enhancing Decision-Making Through Information Sharing
• Investing in Workforce Development
• Storytelling and Strategic Communication

A concise event summary expands on these opportunities, detailing how they align with the group’s shared vision for rural prosperity in Michigan. It serves as both a record of insights from the convening and a guide for future action.