Rural Prosperity through the Arts & Creative Sector: A Rural Action Guide for Governors and States
This landmark report draws on a growing body of research that shows how creative economic development helps rural communities to thrive. It offers suggestions that governors can follow to boost economic opportunities, retain young people and preserve a great quality of life in America's rural communities—all through the arts. 
Designed for governors and their top advisors, the guide offers a five-point policy framework and 27 action steps illustrated by almost 100 examples. Many of the examples foreground the importance of state arts agencies! The action guide also includes policy recommendations for governors that can amplify your work, such as:
- Integrate the creative sector into state strategy and planning efforts around economic development, housing and community development.
- Invest in cultural and creative institutions in rural areas and small communities.
- Support creative placemaking initiatives in rural areas with technical assistance, convenings and collaborations.
To learn more, explore the project website and the press release. NASAA offers a suite of rural prosperity resources, including a brand-new infographic on rural equity in state arts agency grant making.