With the recent establishment of the White House Rural Council, led by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, President Obama has committed the Administration to improving the economic security of rural America. In a new White House report, “Jobs and Economic Security for Rural America,” the Administration outlines the current economic landscape of rural America and presents its efforts to promote economic growth and job creation in rural communities. The report highlights the importance of understanding the specific needs and the unique opportunities found within rural America and presents the Administration’s strategies to seize those opportunities and address some the challenges facing rural areas.
Specifically, the report outlines the Administration’s focus on several areas:
Creating Jobs and Economic Growth
- Increasing opportunity and promoting entrepreneurship by expanding access to capital for small businesses in rural America
- Assisting producers and expanding markets for American agricultural and forest products
- Training a globally competitive workforce in rural America
Promoting Innovation and Investment
- Expanding broadband access and promoting global connectivity in rural America
- Investing in clean and renewable energy opportunities
- Developing high-growth regional economies by leveraging rural strengths
Improving Access to Quality, Affordable Healthcare, Housing, Education, and Other Critical Facilities
- Expanding access to healthcare and creating new healthcare jobs in rural America
- Improving educational outcomes for youth in rural America
- Providing sustainable, affordable housing to rural Americans
- Building 21st century rural infrastructure
Expanding Opportunity through Conservation, Outdoor Recreation, and Tourism
- Expanding opportunities through conservation, outdoor recreation, and tourism to create sustained economic growth
Supporting Veterans and Military Families
- Providing veterans with the employment, training, medical care, and credentialing support they deserve in the rural communities where they live.
To view the report, click here.