Current research and educational programs of the NCRCRD are grouped according to the following program areas:

Improving Economic Competitiveness, Diversity and Adaptability of Small and/or Rural Communities

The globalization of the economy has created new challenges for rural communities, and strategies are needed that build local networks as well as global connections. Coordinated community activities tend to result in the increased economic well-being of community members. Towards this end, specific programming efforts of the NCRCRD include value-added agriculture, investment capital, rural tourism, rural retail, and e-commerce.

Linking Natural Resource Industries, including Agriculture, with Community and Environmental Resources

One of the unique aspects of rural communities is their natural resource base. In the United States, 97 percent of the land area is rural, and as the population increases, more is expected from rural areas in terms of environmental services. Programming efforts of the NCRCRD focus on strengthening the ability of rural communities to respond to changing and complex demands on local resources.

Increasing Community Capacity to Deal with Change

As changes occur and devolution unfolds, additional responsibilities are being placed on rural areas. Communities must constantly improve their ability to identify and invest in human, financial, physical and social resources. The NCRCRD offers programs in leadership development and strategic planning, and supports research on building and measuring social capital.

Increasing Social Viability through Enhancing the Self-reliance of Families and Communities

Not only do rural economies need to be vital, the households and individuals in these communities need to increase their well-being. The NCRCRD supports programs and research on reducing poverty, and increasing participation of ethnic minorities in rural communities.

Facilitating Development of Policies that Enhance the Well-being of Rural People and Small Towns

Dramatic changes in federal policies have many implications for state and local areas that require a policy response at that level. Many NCRCRD programs are designed to provide local governments of small towns and rural areas with current research into policy alternatives. Studies include the community impacts of large value-added enterprises and confined animal operations; techniques for working with those who have conflicting uses of land, water and public financial resources; and strengthening the rural-urban connection.