Rural Development Initiatives

Rural Development Initiatives, Inc. (RDI) is an Oregon-based nonprofit committed to assisting rural Northwest communities face today’s challenges and create vitality. RDI is dedicated to building the capacity of rural leaders and to facilitating the development of collaborative partnerships that undertake economic and community development initiatives. RDI works with local community leaders, volunteers, and partners to proactively address opportunities and challenges. In the process, we facilitate the development of social capital by helping communities build on their own assets, and linking them to resources they need to succeed.

RDI has successfully helped more than 200 towns and rural partnerships develop and diversify their economies by creating inclusive, long-term strategies and in identifying and managing crucial projects. RDI's work is focused in Oregon but also reaches six western states and British Columbia.

RDI has a 13 member board of Directors, 10 staff members in the main office in Eugene, Oregon and 13 field staff positions throughout the state. RDI’s annual budget is $3.1 million and comes from foundations, the state and federal sources, and user fees.

Mission Statement RDI is a catalyst for community vitality in rural areas: we work with rural leaders and volunteers to expand the knowledge, skills and networks for building communities that foster opportunity, thrive and endure.