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RURAL DEVELOPMENT RECONSIDERED: A PERSPECTIVE FROM THE SOUTH 



largely at the local, multi-county, regional, or industry sector levels; 



Clearly focus and target benefits to rural communities , starting with those in 

 greatest need of assistance; 



Emphasize regional (at a minimum multi-county) approaches and provide 

 incentives for regional collaboration. Many problems cannot be tackled only at the 

 community level. The success of rural economies is linked to their urban 

 neighbors. Economic development efforts building these linkages must be 

 fostered; 



Promote local ownership and the building of assets for rural residents to increase 

 the wealth remaining in rural areas and to give a stake in the local economy to a 

 broader base of citizens; 



Encourage partnerships and collaborations. The more limited institutional base in 

 rural areas demands greater creativity and the building of new types of 

 partnerships. Investments must be made in capacity building of rural organizations 

 capable of undertaking development ( including community development 

 corporations, networks of firms, etc.) so that long-term investments in restructuring 

 the rural economy can pay off; 



Link the provision of financial capital with resources for building the human 

 capacity - technical, management, and leadership and planning skills - that are 

 essential if financial investments are to achieve their intended benefits for rural 

 communities most directly affected; 



Minimize bureaucracy. When using non-profits to deliver capital, training, or other 

 services, don't overburden them with so much bureaucracy that they lose their 

 advantages of flexibility, targeting, market-orientation, etc. Rely on performance 

 measures rather than restrictive regulation to ensure accountability; and 



Measure results - evaluate and support programs and local providers based upon 

 results and tangible progress to reach the goals and objectives. 



