Category: Uncategorized

USDA Launches Rural Data Gateway to Strengthen Partnerships and Expand Access to Resources for People in Rural America

February 3, 2023

USDA Launches Rural Data Gateway to Strengthen Partnerships and Expand Access to Resources for People in Rural America

New Resource Makes It Easier for People to Access Data on USDA-funded Projects in Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2023 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small today unveiled the Rural Data Gateway, a new resource to make the Department’s data for rural projects easier to access for its partners and for people living in rural communities.

The Rural Data Gateway will help USDA better target resources to the people who need them most in rural places. It also will help the Department be a stronger partner to rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and other stakeholders.

“The Biden-Harris Administration knows that transparency is important for a free government,” Torres Small said. “It also drives innovation, accountability and more equitable outcomes for rural people everywhere. The Rural Data Gateway will highlight places where USDA has expanded access to capital for people in rural communities who need it most. It will demonstrate how Rural Development (RD) funds are being used across rural America. It will help business owners, farmers and ranchers better understand where RD resources have helped to modernize infrastructure and create economic prosperity. It will help rural people see where investments are being made to expand or improve access to health care, high-speed internet, and safe drinking water in their communities, and much more.”

To learn more, read the full news release.

A Redesigned Ruralcenter.org

January 26, 2023

A Redesigned Ruralcenter.org

Introducing the new ruralcenter.org – the online home of the National Rural Health Resource Center, the leading technical assistance and knowledge center focused on rural health.

Following a more than six-month-long design and development process, they are officially launching the new site. Once you visit the revamped ruralcenter.org and begin exploring, you’ll find a layout and design that’s fresh, modern, and inviting, a site that provides an improved user experience for visitors.

You Spoke. They Listened.

Even before they officially surveyed website users and key stakeholders this past year, they heard your comments. “It’s too text heavy.” “Sometimes it’s difficult to find the things I’m looking for.” Those comments have played a vital role in the redesign process. Thank you for your willingness to speak up and share your feedback.

New Look. Same High-Quality Resources.

The “look” of the site has certainly changed: There’s less text. More images and videos. More color. A more streamlined navigation. But the resources and events that you’ve come to expect — reporting templates, toolkits, webinars, podcasts, and so much more — are all still here. They’re just easier to find, download, and use.

You’ll also Notice…

In addition to a website redesign, The Center’s brand has been refreshed. The new look features abstract icons that depict a landscape with a crossroads in the foreground and a rising sun in the horizon. The new graphical elements in the logo help to communicate much of what The Center is about: The pathways crossing signify togetherness and collaboration; the sun conveys positivity and possibilities.

What Do You Think?

What do you think of the new site? Are you able to navigate it easily? Can you find the guides and toolkits that you’re looking for? And what about the new brand logo? What’s your gut feeling? If you’re willing to share your thoughts about the site and logo, please email mmcgill@ruralcenter.org.