In a recent exploration of rural America's socio-economic landscape, Steven Conn's 2023 book, 'The Lies of the Land – Seeing Rural America for What It Is—and Isn’t,' challenges the notion of a rural crisis. Conn argues that rural areas have thrived due to substantial federal and corporate investments, including military spending, transportation, communication, and education [a8930066].
Neal Lemery's review in the Tillamook County Pioneer highlights Conn's assertion that historical investments, such as transcontinental railroads and agricultural subsidies, have played a pivotal role in shaping the rural economy [a8930066]. Furthermore, Conn emphasizes the diversity within rural communities, suggesting that the 'rural-urban divide' is an oversimplification that overlooks the complexities of rural life, including the different experiences of women [a8930066].
Adding to this narrative, a recent article by Anthony F. Pipa from the Brookings Institution underscores the importance of innovation in rural America. Pipa notes that ingenuity and entrepreneurship are integral to rural communities, with localized innovations addressing pressing national issues such as digitalization, affordable housing, and childcare [d312c6b8]. For instance, Chris Carnell from Codefi Works in Cape Girardeau, MO, is expanding the digital economy, while Charlie Chupp of Fading West Development in Buena Vista, CO, is tackling affordable housing through modular homes. Additionally, Thania Hernandez has opened a bilingual childcare center in Ellsworth, ME, through the CEI’s Child Care Innovation Lab [d312c6b8].
Moreover, Pipa highlights specific initiatives that exemplify rural innovation. Byron Kominek leads agrovoltaic efforts in Colorado with Jack’s Solar Garden, a 1.2-megawatt solar garden that integrates agriculture and solar energy [9eaa2513]. In North Carolina, Sara Chester and Molly Hemstreet are revitalizing the textile industry through employee ownership, creating 85 jobs in the process [9eaa2513]. Tim Lampkin's Higher Purpose Co. in Clarksdale, Mississippi, focuses on local business development and narrative change, providing over $1.5 million in grants and creating 400 jobs [9eaa2513]. These examples illustrate how rural innovators are not only crucial for community resilience but also play a significant role in addressing local needs and contributing to the national economy [d312c6b8].