2025 Rural Economic Development Forum to be held in Gonzales

A national economic development forum for rural communities will be held in Gonzales, Texas, on Oct. 7-8, 2025. This event, the Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum, will feature nationally renowned subject matter experts, dynamic panelists, and successful economic development practitioners.

Topics to be covered include innovative economic development strategies, logistics, downtown revitalization, entrepreneurship, business development, tourism, community development programs, regionalism, workforce, youth & career development, local leadership development, collaboration, and more.

This Forum is designed specifically for Rural America. Participants will receive tangible strategies to help rural cities, counties and regions grow in economic prosperity. The event will feature informative and dynamic presentations, discussions, case studies, networking and celebrating what makes Rural America special.

This Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum is hosted by ACCELERATION by design LLC, an economic development consulting firm based in Austin.

Lorie Vincent, President of ACCELERATION by design LLC, says “It has been my privilege to work with more than 450 rural communities and regions throughout my 35-year economic development career. I have witnessed the needs and challenges that face Rural America for economic growth and sustainability. Bringing these topics, presenters and participants together puts viable and tested tools into the hands of the changemakers in rural communities and creates an environment for innovative and immediate action.”

The forum is designed for Economic Development Organizations, Chambers of Commerce, Cities, Counties, Downtown/Downtown Associations, Main Street Communities, Regional Groups, Utilities, Lenders, Logistics, Community & Industry Leaders, and anyone with a vested interest in the growth and prosperity of Rural America.

Scheduled presenters include Julie Roller Weeks, a nationally renowned Tourism Trailblazer; Jeff Siegler, author of the book “Your City is Sick” and the popular blog Revitalize, or Die; Doug Griffiths, renowned economic strategist and author of the best selling book “13 Ways to Kill Your Community”; and Lorie Vincent, economic strategist, facilitator and author of the best selling book “Stand Up Rural America” along with a dynamic panel on “Logistics: The Foundation for Growth in Rural America.”

The forum will be held at the JB Wells Expo Center in Gonzales. Previous Stand Up Rural America events have been held in Tulsa; Charleston, W.V.; Somerset, Ky.; Mulvane, Kan.; Laurel, Miss; Decorah, Iowa; French Lick, Ind.; and Canyon, Texas.

Forum sponsorships are available. Exhibitors are welcome. Registration for the Forum opened Friday, Aug. 15.

For more information about the 2025 Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum in Gonzales, go to www.StandUpRuralAmerica.com.