Louisiana Economic Development (LED) is committed to expanding economic opportunities for all Louisiana communities and is very aware of the unique struggles rural communities are facing across America. LED's programs and partnerships serve our state's entrepreneurs, trailblazers, culture-makers, and innovators everywhere they live and work. LED celebrates Louisiana's rural communities and businesses that are born and thrive there.

Rural economic development requires local capacity building and focus on the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas, often relatively isolated and sparsely populated areas. Rural development has traditionally relied almost solely on land-intensive natural resources such as agriculture and forestry. Rural economic development now must focus on the unique strengths of each community, rather than concentrating on a "one size fits all" approach. Each community must also recognize their responsibility for economic success; designing and implementing local development strategies that are independent of and leverage state and federal resources. That said, Federal and state governments must provide rural regions with the necessary tools, financing mechanisms, and digital infrastructure to develop and execute effective development strategies. Clear steps to success in rural economic development include the following:

LED remains committed to rural communities and expanding opportunities for the people and businesses based in rural areas of Louisiana. Governor Edwards and Louisiana Economic Development (LED) will stay focused on rural Louisiana's revitalization and sponsor programs that support the growth of business and opportunity in our rural communities.