The Center for Rural Innovation (CRI) at the University of Tennessee at Martin will serve as a catalyst for rural community development throughout West Tennessee and the broader American Heartland. Strategically located within 50 miles of Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, and Illinois, UT Martin is uniquely positioned to address the critical challenges facing rural communities while leveraging their distinctive assets and opportunities.
Rural communities today face unprecedented challenges, including population decline, limited economic diversification, insufficient infrastructure, and loss of cultural heritage. Simultaneously, these communities possess rich traditions, strong social bonds, and untapped potential for innovation. The Center will bridge these realities by connecting university resources with community needs through integrated programming that addresses economic development, cultural preservation, and civic engagement.
Who we’ve worked with/for
- Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS)
- Institute for Public Service (IPS)
- Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (ECD)
- Ford & Blue Oval City
- City of Stanton, TN
- City of Mason, TN
- City of Martin, TN
- City of Halls, TN
- Crockett County
- City of Henning, TN
What we offer
- Community Needs Assessments
- Economic Impact Studies
- Societal Impact Studies
- Housing Studies (outside TN)
- City and county government internships
- Oral histories