The Global Context for Regional and Rural Development
- Globalisation
- Emerging technologies
- Emerging and declining
- Asian meltdown and domestic downturn
- Changing corporate structures eg rationalisation, outsourcing.
- Shifting infrastructure demand eg digital economy
- Declining commodity prices
- Smaller government but more regional focus
Why Local Communities Have Become Key Players in Economic Development
- "Grass roots" initiatives are more successful
- Increased unemployment and inequality
- Pressure from global competition
- Emergence of business and community networks
- "Do more with less"
Why Should We Make Community Economic Development a Top Priority
- Higher incomes and output
- Better quality of life and vibrant culture
- Good jobs and less unemployment
- A future for young people
- High quality infrastructure and services
- Enhancing social and natural environment
Key Agendas for Revitalising Rural Communities
- Central role for local government
- New business and product development
- Town revitalisation
- Innovative economic strategy design and implementation
- Building local capacity
- Innovative skills formation
- Linking to the digital revolution
The Principles of Community Economic Development
- Self-initiative
- Local leadership
- Partnerships
- Inclusive and globally oriented
- Practical and focused on outcomes
- Doing more with less
- Building local capacity and learning processes
Regional Revitalisation: The Keys to Success
- Coherent vision, consensus and implementation plan
- Adaptability and infrastructure
- Commitment from government and industry
- Economic empowerment of communities
- Technological and organisational innovation
- Focus skills formation and learning processes
- Independent design and production capability
- Innovative financing
- Strengthening social capital
Global Lessons for Rural Communities
- Working together: Appalachian Centre for Economic Networks, Ohio
- Helping Rural School Children: Mississippi
- Business and Young People: North Portugal
- Jobs and Information and Communications Technologies: Western Scotland
- Regions and State Economic Development: Oregon
Figure 1: The determinants of regional economic development
