Promoting business networking and entrepreneurship in rural communities will be the focus of a symposium on Sept. 28 at the Scheman Building at Iowa State University. The symposium, "Small Towns and Economic Shocks: Business Networks and Entrepreneurial Communities," will feature John Allen, director of the Western Rural Development Center at Utah State University in Logan. Allen has studied how rural communities respond to change and the impact of technology on rural economic development for the past 20 years. The symposium is being held to help community leaders, economic developers, businesses, policymakers, educators and researchers find ways to enhance rural communities. Lois Wright Morton, Iowa State professor of sociology, said the symposium should appeal to everyone looking for opportunities for their town or region. "It's important for Iowa to have healthy rural communities. At this symposium we're hoping to provide information that will help leaders, policymakers and business persons find the tools to help communities," Morton said. Other topics to be presented during the daylong symposium include economic development challenges, networking advantages, changes in the quality of life and the impacts of sudden economic shocks. Registration deadline is Sept. 16. The $20 fee includes lunch and can be sent to Sociology Extension, 303 East Hall, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011 or go online.
Symposium on Community Entrepreneurship to be Held Sept. 28
August 30, 2005