We’ve had the opportunity each month in 2025 to speak with officials from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission about a variety of topics related to the agency’s initiatives and the broader economic climate in the Natural State.
This month we spoke with Becca Caldwell, director of the AEDC’s Division of Rural Services. She discussed the Division’s mission to ensure Arkansas’ rural communities are not left out of the economic development conversation.
The Division of Rural Services administers several grant programs to help Arkansas’ smallest communities meet their economic and community development goals. These include the Rural Community Grant Program and the Rural Services Block Grant.
The Block Grant Program provides financial assistance to rural Arkansas communities for essential public facilities and emergency services. Eligible projects include the construction or renovation of community centers, fire stations and multipurpose buildings as well as the purchase of fire trucks and specialized firefighting equipment. Grant awards can reach up to $75,000 and require a 10% local match, which may include cash, in-kind labor or materials.
The Rural Community Grant Program supports smaller-scale community improvement efforts in rural Arkansas. Projects funded through this program often include upgrades to parks and recreational facilities, the construction or renovation of pavilions and community centers and the acquisition of firefighting equipment.
Caldwell highlighted a recent project in McNeil as a perfect example of the opportunities provided through these grant programs.
Caldwell also discussed the upcoming 2025 Rural Development Conference, scheduled for May 20–22. The annual event brings together hundreds of attendees including mayors, county judges, legislators and community leaders to focus on enhancing economic development throughout the state. The conference offers participants the latest information and resources needed to strengthen their communities through development, planning and revitalization.
One topic sure to generate attention at this year’s conference is the developing lithium boom in the southern half of the state along with the newly introduced 75Strong program.
Caldwell encourages anyone interested in attending the 2025 Rural Development Conference to visit the event page at www.arkansasedc.com or contact her directly at (501) 682-3292 for more information.
