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Rural Economic Development Institute

Since its inception in 1987, the NC Rural Center has recognized the vital importance of local leadership to the success of our state’s rural areas.

The Rural Economic Development Institute (REDI), the Center's flagship leadership program, has trained over 1,200 rural leaders. By helping participants learn and apply the skills needed to address current and emerging critical issues and economic trends, REDI graduates emerge able to impact the future of their communities and regions. REDI is an intensive nine-day, hands-on training program spanning three months. This training is held at the NC Rural Center office in Raleigh. Participants must attend all three sessions to receive a certificate of completion.

2025 REDI Calendar

July 28 | Application period opens
August 25 | Application period closes
August 29 | Accepted applicants are notified, and registration opens
September 19 | Registration completed ($3,500 training fee is due)
October 7-9 | Session I
November 4-6 | Session II
December 2-4 | Session III

 

Who is REDI for?

The training is designed for current and emerging leaders statewide, across multiple sectors, including:
• Healthcare
• Education
• Government
• Nonprofit
• Faith-based organizations
• Small business leaders and entrepreneurs
• Economic development professionals
• Other community leaders

How to Apply

Applying is a two-step, competitive process. You must apply first, and if selected, complete the registration and payment process. No payment is required to apply.
The registration fee for REDI is $3,500, which includes nine days of training, all training materials, a continental breakfast, a catered lunch each day, and a networking social event during each session. It does not include travel, lodging, and some meals.

 

*Scholarships of up to $3,000 are available. Interested individuals will state their financial need and request a scholarship in the REDI application.

 

The application period closes on August 25. If you have questions, please contact Olaunda Green, director of leadership training, at ogreen@ncruralcenter.org or (919) 212-4283. We hope to see you there. For more information or to apply, click the button below.
Apply Here
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REDI Participants Take Home:

A Deeper Understanding of Rural Economic Development

• Knowledge of a comprehensive economic development model based on interconnected building blocks.
• How to explore real-world data, assets, and best practices shaping rural economies

 

Stronger Leadership Skills

• Ways to build collaborative leadership habits and sharpen interpersonal communication.
• How to gain confidence through moving ideas to action and advocating for community change.

 

Community Engagement Strategies

•  To develop the skills to connect across perspectives and lead with cultural awareness.
• Approaches that promote unity, fairness, and shared ownership in community work.

 

Resource Access and Stakeholder Networking

• How to build lasting relationships with fellow leaders and access expert support.
• How to tap into Rural Center programs, learning opportunities, and a strong alumni network.

 

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What REDI Graduates Have to Say

"REDI opened my mind to new possibilities. . .that there were people all over North Carolina that cared about my community."

Carol Shields

“The whole experience really enhanced my knowledge and skill set as a leader in a rural area. It challenged a lot of my preconceived notions while giving me thought-provoking questions to grow the more underdeveloped aspects of my leadership.”

REDI PARTICIPANT
Download More Program Details
2023 REDI Graduates
2023 REDI Graduates

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