Why do some rural communities thrive and prosper while others seem to whither and die? Our nation’s top rural public policy experts have identified a number of key traits rural communities need to establish and maintain in order to remain strong and grow.

Key Traits of Great Communities:

• Partnering between community and regional leaders
• Quality schools
• Quality and affordable health care
• Affordable and diverse housing
• Technology and communication access
• Social, cultural and recreational opportunities

AgStar Rural Finance helps rural communities leverage existing, locally-based resources and skills and put these programs and facilities in place.