2026 Rural LISC Seminar

The Rural LISC Annual Seminar will be our most impactful yet -- thanks in part to an exciting partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond's Center for Rural Economies! We are aligning our annual gatherings this year in Asheville, North Carolina, to amplify everything our attendees value: greater sharing opportunities, expanded resources, and even more ways to learn, connect, and lead. Longtime attendees of Rural Seminar will recognize the traditions they love -- from local partner-hosted visits to dialogue with peers. On Tuesday, September 29, attendees will have the option to attend one of seven community-hosted conversations held across the Western North Carolina region. The Wednesday, September 30, agenda will include many peer-to-peer learning opportunities as rural leaders share how they are tapping into population growth and net in-migration, employment recovery, federal program investment, and the success of regional collaborations and community-led strategies. As always, you can expect thought-provoking panels, dynamic national speakers, and conversations that challenge, motivate and spark new ideas.