Growth In The Rural Ozarks (GRO) program launched in 2016 in an effort to help Missouri towns design and launch community and economic development initiatives that can bring sustainable local prosperity. The GRO program has grown over the years to include more communities and tap into the knowledge of more local leaders.
Now Accepting Applications for the Class of 2023!
- June 1st: Applications available.
- October 15th: Applications due.
- October 31st: Communities selected.
- November 1st: Program preparation initiated.
- January 1st: Class kick-off.
OFFERED BENEFITS
Leader To Leader Connections
The GRO community is growing as more towns sign up for the program. GRO leaders from different communities can share best practices and offer encouragement to their neighboring communities.
Tools And Templates
The GRO community leaders receive support from seasoned economic development professionals that have worked in dozens of communities. They bring knowledge to Missouri with tools and templates that allow for the coordination of projects and initiatives.
Community Involvement
Within each community, there dwells students, professionals, and other motivated citizens that want to see their town unleash its full potential. GRO provides the platform by which community members can contribute to their community.
PARTICIPATING COMMUNITIES
SELECT THE TOWN AND
VISIT ITS WEBSITES TO KNOW MORE.
SELECT THE TOWN AND
VISIT ITS WEBSITES TO KNOW MORE.
Commited Leadership – Each GRO community develops projects that address pressing needs within the community that can be accomplished with the resources the community has available to it. Each project is then spearheaded by a GRO leader, with support from community volunteers.
Resilient Economy – Whether supporting local entrepreneurs, attracting new businesses, or helping existing businesses grow, GRO communities are equipped with the tools and resources they need to help support the continued growth of their communities.
Engaged Citizens – From helping people get back on their feet to providing students with leadership opportunities, GRO projects seek to empower and support everyone in the community.
Vibrant Place – Love your town. Civic pride bands a community together and is the basis upon which economically strong towns are established. GRO projects design towns to look and feel good.
CURRENTLY ACTIVE
PROJECTS
GRO REFLECTIONS
