What are the 5 keys to small town success? LGI was asked to develop a presentation in response to that question. Using research funded by LGI and other sources we came up with the following keys for success:

• Leverage Resources
• Mind Spatial Relationships
• Seek Collaboration
• Feed Community Health
• Support Local

One of the conclusions of the presentation is that because global development and demographic trends do not favor growth of small towns unless they are part of a metro area, communities should focus first on becoming resilient to negative changes sweeping small towns around the world. Implementing these 5 keys will help communities become more resilient.

The presentation was delivered to four Small Town Forums held in Elroy, Green Lake, Mercer and Hammond in August and September. The Forums were hosted by Wisconsin Rural Partners, Wisconsin Downtown Action Council, UW-Extension Center for Community and Economic Development, Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., and USDA Rural Development.