Phase V of SET Launching in January 2015 Informational Webinar December 5th
Project Partners
Stronger Economies Together is a partnership between Cooperative
Extension Service, USDA RD, the four Regional Rural Development
Centers, NIFA, and Purdue Center for Regional Development.
Eligibility
All states will be eligible to join SET as part of Phase V, including those in previous phases. Note that
applications need to be jointly developed and submitted by USDA Rural Development State Director and Extension Service Director/Administrator.
About Stronger Economies Together
SET enables communities and counties in rural America to work together in developing and implementing
an economic development blueprint for their multi-county region that strategically builds on the current
and emerging economic strengths of that region. Creating, attracting and retaining jobs as a single rural
county, in isolation from other nearby counties, is becoming increasingly ineffective. In today's global
marketplace, economic development progress is more likely to be realized when rural and metro counties
work together as a region to assess, design, and implement plans that build on their assets and comparative economic strengths.
New for Phase V
SET V is taking a brand new approach based on an extensive review of the program. Significant
improvements to engage participants has been made; a civic engagement module added which will
increase stakeholder involvement and buy-in; and a more streamlined approach which reduces the
number of modules and gives greater flexibility to adapt to the capacity of that region. Most importantly,
significant time will be devoted to launching the plan into implementation.
How to Apply
Applications are due January 31, 2015. The regional applications will be due later. Stronger Economies
Together is a partnership between Cooperative Extension Service, USDA RD, the four Regional Rural
Development Centers, NIFA and Purdue Center for Regional Development. The partners work together to
help SET regions (three or more counties) to work, learn, plan, and implement together the region's plan.
If your state joins SET Phase V, it will require a commitment of staff time from both Rural Development
and Extension. Extension Service will receive a subcontract for the regions it to help offset training costs.
This funding can cover staff time, travel, and program delivery expenses (printing, supplies, meeting expenses, etc.
December 5th Introductory Webinar 1:00 p.m. Central
To join the Webinar (which will be recorded):
Go to https://rurdev.webex.com
Enter your name and email address.
Enter the session password: SET and click "Join Now".
Follow the instructions that appear on your screen.
5. For audio call: 1-800-981-3173 3665#
Questions can be directed to Rachel Welborn at rachelw@srdc.msstate.edu