Arkansas’ smallest communities continue to benefit from targeted state support thanks to programs administered by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Division of Rural Services. Director Becca Caldwell recently shared insight into the division’s mission, grant opportunities and its signature event, the 2025 Rural Development Conference.
Caldwell said her division focuses on assisting towns with populations under 3,000 through financial support and leadership training.
“We administer grants, provide training and work directly with mayors, county judges and economic developers to identify challenges and connect them with solutions,” she explained…