Creating a tech-based economy is hard work. And although tech economy jobs and startups are scattered throughout rural America, building a full, self-perpetuating ecosystem requires strong foundational pieces in place, coordinated efforts across a variety of tech economy components, and committed and ambitious local leadership.

At RISI, we help our partners design tech economy ecosystems around their strengths and assets, raise money to invest in kickstarting all ecosystem components at once, and then use our best practices to roll out and implement the vision they have for the future of their community. We provide frameworks and templates, facilitate planning sessions, give feedback, and help identify possible grant sources and partners.