The Genesee Valley Rural Innovation Institute

Twenty-first century realities require new ways of thinking, leading and managing resources. In order to develop more diversified, sustainable, and inclusive rural economies, communities need entrepreneurial, cross-discipline, and systems-savvy leaders committed to a region over the long term.

In response to this need, SUNY Geneseo’s Center for Integrative Learning is establishing the Genesee Valley Rural Innovation Institute in 2021 with funding from the Northern Border Regional Commission. Working with regional stakeholders, the institute will function as a hub to connect resources and address workforce development gaps through the design and delivery of innovative professional and applied learning programs that cultivate the talent needed to respond to modern rural realities, and promote dynamic, resilient communities in rural western New York and beyond.

What We Aim to Achieve:

• Attract new talent to the Genesee Valley by creating a supportive hub for creative and entrepreneurial people - especially mid-career professionals returning to the area and looking to pivot in their career or create a new entrepreneurial venture. 
• Stem “brain drain” by providing new employment pathways for local youth and SUNY undergraduate students that allow them to live locally and work globally.
• Create a space (physical and virtual) where rural innovators, educators, administrators, and thought leaders can come together to reimagine 21st Century rural economies and to foster capacity to build more diversified, durable and inclusive ventures anchored to our regional assets and strengths.