#RuralX Summit Inspires Over 200 People to Make a Difference for Rural Commuities

26 Jul 2016


Economic Development, Rural development, Entrepreneur, Business/Finance/Economy

The first annual #RuralX Summit, hosted by Dakota Resources and 57 sponsors, brought 220 guests together for two days of motivational learning, idea sharing and networking. The event was held July 19 and 20 at the Dakota Events Center in Aberdeen and included national and regional speakers, a farm to table Harvest Supper, entertainment, panel discussions, OpenX break-outs and more.

#RuralX stands for “Rural Experience” and was dedicated to helping connect rural change makers to valuable resources and like-minded people across the state. The summit was inspired by Dakota Resources, a statewide organization dedicated to stimulating financial and human investment in communities that are invested themselves.

“Being a rural entrepreneur, business owner, city leader or community volunteer can feel isolating,” says Beth Davis, President of Dakota Resources. “This brought people together in a way that helps them feel like they are part of something bigger. There was so much talent and creativity in the room, you could just feel the energy. People were excited to see other people doing things in rural places, taking chances and make a difference. It was fabulous.”

In addition to hearing national and regional speakers, guests were able to create their own rural agendas and break-out sessions through an innovative OpenX concept. Over 21 topics were covered, from how to involve more youth in community development to securing funding to helping Native relations.

Participating in the summit from the Faulkton Area Economic Development Corporation were Roger Dieter, Dwight Hossle and Trevor Cramer, Faulkton Economic Development Director.  Deiter hosted a session entitiled "Encouraging Ag Producers to Engage In Community" and Hossle was a contributor in the Dakota Rising session.  Cramer was part of a panel discussion on housing.  

The two-day #RuralX Summit was supported by over 50 sponsors, including major corporate sponsors Avera, Wheat Growers and the Bush Foundation. Plans for next year’s #RuralX Summit are already underway, with hopes of attracting even more rural change makers. For more information, visit Dakota Resources at www.dakotaresources.org.