Rural communities are seeing renewed interest from outside capital — data centers, manufacturing sites, energy infrastructure, and more – promising jobs and tax base growth. But these investments often come with tradeoffs: land taken out of agricultural use, heavy demands on water and energy systems, and decisions made far from the people most affected.

NationSwell invites leaders from business, philanthropy, and the social sector to a conversation on how to invest in rural economic prosperity without stripping local communities of agency. We’ll explore what responsible investment looks like when rural regions are asked to host large-scale infrastructure and enterprise—and how models that prioritize local ownership, shared decision-making, and long-term community benefit can compete with extractive approaches.

To encourage open and candid discussion, this event follows the Chatham House Rule – attendees may share insights from the conversation but cannot attribute statements to specific individuals or organizations. This ensures a trusted space for thoughtful dialogue and deeper insights.