Rural black Fifth District communities have long suffered fewer economic opportunities and thus worse economic outcomes.

This article provides some history on the evolution of the Fifth District population across race and the rural-urban continuum since the late 1800s.

The Richmond Fed hosted the virtual Investing in Rural America Conference in October to explore opportunities for innovation in rural parts of the Fifth District.

How did rural and urban counties compare on measures of health outcomes and drivers prior to the COVID-19 pandemic?

Research indicates that one promising strategy for rural development is maintaining and improving the quality of an area's public schools.

Although the Fifth District’s black population tends to have higher employment and educational attainment compared to the nation’s, there are still significant disparities relative to whites.

Fifth District states have amassed budget surpluses over the past few years. Additionally, state and local governments received aid through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Now, states must decide how to spend both.

Focusing on a complete household’s needs, Garrett County Community Action Committee’s integrated “2Gen approach” links children to high-quality early education and their parents to services that build financial security.

Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) like Woodlands Community Lenders are uniquely positioned to help rural towns address unique challenges through place-based revitalization and by attracting investment.

Vance-Granville Community College’s early college high schools and workforce programs are improving education and job opportunities for area residents.

Choptank Electric Cooperative on Maryland’s Eastern Shore is an example of how many electric cooperatives are providing broadband service in rural communities.

In our new Rural Spotlight series, we explore solutions to the economic challenges faced by rural communities in the Fifth District.

Dave Clark discusses the role of Woodlands Development Group and his organization's community development financial institution in driving economic development in north central West Virginia.

Tim McGaha of Choptank Electric Cooperative offers his perspective on the company's program to bring broadband Internet to rural communities in Maryland.

Alex Marré and Anna Read discuss how communities can maximize broadband resources.