We are excited to announce the upcoming 2026 Investing in Rural America Conference, a flagship event for the Richmond Fed’s Center for Rural Economies. Mark your calendars for September 30 – October 2, 2026, as we gather at the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina.

This year’s conference will showcase innovative strategies for rural prosperity across several key areas:

• Economic development
• Small business development
• Financial inclusion
• Workforce pathways
• And more!

This conference creates a valuable space for attendees to:

• Connect with influential rural stakeholders from across the nation
• Learn about cutting-edge approaches to rural economic vitality
• Engage in discussions that shape the future of rural America

Our new venue, the historic Omni Grove Park Inn, offers a stunning backdrop for collaboration and inspiration, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.

Registration details will be available in the coming months. To ensure you receive notification when registration opens, please sign up here.

For more information about our ongoing work in supporting small towns and rural communities, visit our Center for Rural Economies page.