Western Governor’s Association Podcast – Diversifying the Rural Economy

Diversifying the Rural Economy, the latest episode of WGA’s Out West podcast, explores how a variety of different business structures can provide stability to their respective communities. WGA Policy Advisor Laura Cutlip speaks with experts on small businesses, cooperatives, and remote work to learn how rural areas can use these models to strengthen their economies. (Listen) And while you’re at it, consider listening to all the previous episodes on Podbean, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.

WGA has hosted several webinars on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, including a three-part series on responses to the economic impact. Watch them all now.

Part I: COVID-19 Economic Impacts and Mitigation in Rural Communities: Learn about the many resources from federal agencies available to rural communities to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic. Watch

Part II: COVID-19 Economic Impacts and Mitigation in Rural Communities: Officials from western rural communities share strategies for mitigating short-term economic impacts and long-term recovery plans. Watch

Part III: COVID-19 Economic Impacts and Mitigation on Main Street (Part III): Challenges facing businesses in rural communities, obstacles that limit the effectiveness of federal aid programs, and next steps for recovery. Watch

Other topics covered in webinars include:

Rural Health Response to COVID-19: Idaho’s Blaine County was an early hot spot of COVID-19 cases, with one of the country’s highest per capita infection rates. County leaders explain how they responded and continue to manage the virus. Watch

Community Anchor Institution Connectivity: Learn about federal programs that direct broadband investments to schools, libraries, hospitals, and community centers, as well as the role of anchor institutions during the pandemic. Watch

Reimagining Disability Employment Policy in the Rural West: Hear about disability employment best practices and policy options, as well as how the State Exchange on Employment & Disability works with state leaders. Watch

COVID-19: Cybersecurity Threats & Best Practices: Cyber threats are growing as states, schools, health care facilities, and businesses transition to remote solutions. Find out how to counter malicious campaigns. Watch

Improving Airports and Air Service in the Rural West: Air service is critical to rural prosperity. Hear about funding sources and best practices for communities to maintain air facilities and services. Watch