All RDLN participants gather for a 4-5 week RDLN Rural Development Institute that enables those from different regions to exchange experiences and strategies and to examine the commonalities of their rural communities. Reports on RDLN Field Projects are made, and the specifics of the challenges faced by different communities are discussed. Workshops and courses are held in appropriate areas, as part of the academic program. There is an opportunity to visit local efforts to overcome rural poverty. Among the subjects in the curriculum are economic development, business development, an overview of U.S. rural areas, rural governance, organization and management, research methods, and resource development.
Participants also pursue specialized learning on their own.
To reflect and channel community involvement in the participants' RDLN Field Project, 2. To identify a Field Resource Advisor who will provide back-up and guidance for the RDLN Field Project, 4. To provide a suitable working environment for the participant in terms of basics like office space, telephone and office supplies, 5. The Sponsoring Organization to pay this amount to the participant directly through salary or stipend. The participant may also waive the payment.