Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Julie Siple, Tom Weber and Jo Erickson

Closing the rural, urban poverty gap

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Amid a growing divide between metro and rural areas, a local public policy organization is launching a new project to figure out what it will take to strengthen communities and economies in greater Minnesota.

What kinds of state policies, local programs or business incentives will work? What will help reduce inequality and poverty?

Growth & Justice calls its new effort the "Minnesota Rural Equity Project."

MPR News host Tom Weber spoke with two guests — Growth & Justice President Dane Smith and Granite Falls Mayor Dave Smiglewski — about problems in rural Minnesota, why rural Minnesotans are feeling the pinch and what can be done about it.

To hear the entire conversation use the audio player above.