The NC Rural Center has announced that the application period is now open for its Homegrown Leaders training. The in-person training will take place from September 10-12 in Kinston.

About Homegrown Leaders

Homegrown Leaders is a three-day regional leadership and community economic development training program. It aims to equip existing and emerging leaders with skills to plan for and address long-term and sustainable economic advancement in their communities and regions. The program brings the foundational elements of the Rural Center’s Rural Economic Development Institute (REDI) to local communities, fostering leadership development and regional collaboration.

Who Should Apply

The training is open to leaders and emerging leaders from various sectors, including healthcare, education, government, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, small businesses, and economic development professionals. Individuals who live or work in the shaded eastern counties of North Carolina are eligible to apply. Those outside this geographic area can complete an interest form to be notified of future training opportunities.

Objectives of Homegrown Leaders

Participants in the Homegrown Leaders training will:

• Learn and apply skills needed to address current and emerging critical issues and economic trends impacting their communities and regions.

• Understand the importance of regional collaboration in building long-term solutions to common problems and innovative growth opportunities.

• Engage in economic development activities, including examining community economic development building blocks, analyzing current data and regional trends, exploring critical local/regional issues, and learning how to eliminate barriers and expand opportunities for marginalized populations.

• Develop leadership skills, explore emotional intelligence, and learn strategies for working with others and leading difficult conversations.

• Build relationships through networking with other regional leaders.

Additional Information

The cost for the training is $350, with limited scholarships available. The application process is competitive, and successful applicants will be notified and invited to participate. Participants must commit to attending the full three days of training.

Timeline

• August 13, 2024: Application period closes.

• August 16, 2024: Accepted applicants notified, and registration opens.

• August 25, 2024: Registration completed, with the $350 fee due.

• September 10-12, 2024: Homegrown Leaders Training.

Application and Outreach

The application period closes at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, August 13. The NC Rural Center encourages individuals and organizations to consider applying and sharing this opportunity with interested parties. Information can be shared via organizational newsletters, websites, or social media.

For more information about the Homegrown Leaders training and to apply, visit the NC Rural Center’s website.