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Stronger Economies Together (SET)
Stronger Economies Together is a national regional economic training initiative launched by USDA Rural Development, in partnership with the nation's four Regional Rural Development Centers (RRDC's). The purpose of SET is to encourage the communities and counties in rural America to work collaboratively on a multi-county regional basis in strengthening their regional economies. In today's global market place, economic development progress is more likely to be realized when rural and metro counties work together as multi-county regions to assess, design, and implement plans that build on their assets and comparative economic strengths.
Earlier this year, Utah was selected by the national USDA Rural Development office to be one of three states in the west to participate in Phase Two of the SET national rollout along with Colorado and Washington in the west. (Arizona and New Mexico were selected for the Phase One round last year.) Applications are now being sought from rural communities and entities across Utah who wish to participate in this federal program designed to help multi-county regions within Utah to create strong, sustainable regional economies.
This extensive nine module 35 hour training program will be offered to two applicants selected by the national USDA Rural Development office to receive this no cost training. The Utah state office for USDA Rural Development is facilitating a teleconference call on Wednesday, April 27th at 11:00 AM (MST) to answer questions from perspective applicants. Please email donna.birk@ut.usda.gov for entry phone number and passcode.
Following are websites that will provide additional information on the SET program; how to apply, the application and application process.
Outline of Training Program
Western Rural Development Center (WRDC)
The Regional Works provide for a number of resources that explains the merit of a regional approach to community and economic development. http://srdc.msstate.edu/set/
SET Public Website
USDA Rural Development
125 South State Street, Rm 4311
Salt Lake City, UT 84138
Phone: 801-524-4321
dave.conine@ut.usda.gov
Director, Extension Business and Economic Development Services
Department of Applied Economics
Utah State University
3530 Old Main Hill
Logan, UT 84322
Phone: 435-797-2284
Marion.bentley@usu.edu
Senior Program Officer
Western Rural Development Center (WRDC)
8335 Old Main Hill
Logan, UT 84322-8335
Phone: 435-797-7606
Jim.goodwin@usu.edu