South Dakota Rural Enterprise has received and accepted three Creating a Value-Added Community (CVAC) program applications that together involve 17 South Dakota communities. The three CVAC programs will be delivered to

• the Glacial Lakes Area Development Corporation,
• the Tri-Community Economic Enhancement region (TREE), and
• the Gregory County Economic Development region.

SD Rural Enterprise is delivering these programs in cooperation with various organizations, including the SDSU Extension Service and the Rural Learning Center. Due to the generous financial support of the Northwest Area Foundation and the South Dakota Community Foundation, the CVAC program is offered on a sliding fee based on community population. Two more communities are currently in the application stage.

The Creating a Value-Added Community process is aimed at helping rural communities find practical ways to build capacity and fuel their economic engines toward a vibrant local economy. The purpose of the CVAC process is to help community residents understand that addressing issues by focusing on their strengths is good business. Once communities have learned to focus on their assets, they can tailor strategies that complement the development of those assets.

Developed by the Northwest Area Foundation, Creating a Value-Added Community is built around five value-added capacities that have helped other communities grow. The five value-added capacities are: Inclusivity, Regional Impact, Leadership Development, Economic Engines and Asset-Based Development. Upon completion of the CVAC process, participants will have a multi-dimensional Action Plan for their community.

If your community is interested in implementing CVAC, or would like to learn more about the process, contact our office or visit www.sdrei.org.

2007 AUTUMN REPORT
	Opportunity Dialog focuses on action plans
	Smart communities follow 7 steps to success
	New IDA concept helps low-income families save
	Opportunity Roundup provides nationwide info links
	Let’s be proud to tell our South Dakota stories
	Pilot communities selected for CVAC