The Public Finance Initiative is excited to announce a bold new program to bring public resources and philanthropy together to reverse decades of disinvestment in America’s rural and small cities. We’re partnering with state and local leaders to unlock opportunities for lasting growth. Learn more.
The Rural and Small Cities Program aims to shift patterns of disinvestment by building the capacity of states, counties, cities, and towns to unlock public finance resources and consider how to strategically integrate philanthropic investments. The Program provides technical assistance and training to governments to catalyze and sustain investments over time. Register for an information session or browse our "Frequently Asked Questions" document for this project. The Rural and Small Cities Program is supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, but the views expressed here are those of the Public Finance Initiative.
We're recruiting states, counties, cities, and towns ready to lead the way. States, public authorities, local governments, and municipal bond banks will receive technical assistance to develop and pitch a program-related investment to philanthropic funders. Local governments will participate in a 2-day workshop and build capacity to invest in desired place-based outcomes. Submit a brief indication of interest form.
We're hosting weekly information sessions for anyone who wants to learn more about the Program. Please join us to ask questions, share challenges, and find out how our technical assistance and capacity building can help you. These 30-minute sessions are offered on different days and times. Register for an Information Session.
Shifting patterns of disinvestment takes all of us. We're partnering with state and local leaders to deliver the strategies and resources that rural and small communities need to thrive. The program announcement and "Frequently Asked Questions" document briefly explains the goals of the program, who will be involved, participation criteria, and next steps. Read more.
The webinar series will feature local leaders & experts sharing practical solutions to finance infrastructure in rural and small communities. Join our mailing list to receive updates and visit our Youtube channel to see past webinar recordings. Register here to join us on November 14, 2025 at 2:00pm EST for our next webinar on Practical Strategies for Capital Planning in Rural & Small Municipalities, featuring Kyle Wedberg from GFOA.
