Empowering economic resilience through Extension

Across 1890 land-grant universities, Extension programs play a critical role in strengthening economic stability by delivering trusted, community-based education and technical assistance to underserved rural and urban populations. By expanding access to financial literacy, farm management training and wealth-building resources, these efforts empower families and producers to make informed decisions, protect assets and build long-term resilience that supports community prosperity and sustainable economic growth.

Here are a few examples of that work:

• In Alabama, Tuskegee University’s Small Farm Outreach Training & Technical Assistance Project strengthened farm viability in the rural counties by delivering targeted financial management, recordkeeping and heirs’ property education to farmers and landowners. Through 209 technical assistance activities, the program helped secure more than $800,000 in loans and grants, improving land retention, farm profitability and long-term economic stability for rural families and communities.
  Tuskegee University Cooperative Extension Program. Supported by USDA Capacity – Extension. See full statement.

• Adults across Ohio gained access to community-based financial literacy education that improved budgeting, credit management and long-term financial decision-making. In one year, 155 lessons reached 942 participants, with more than 90% reporting increased financial knowledge and confidence to apply new skills, strengthening household stability and economic resilience statewide.
  Central State University Extension. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement.

• In Alabama, the Financial Literacy in Progress (FLIP) program equipped 211 participants with practical money management skills to improve budgeting, credit use and debt reduction amid rising living costs. Post-program evaluations showed substantial behavior changes, including large increases in plans to monitor credit, avoid predatory lending and reduce high-interest debt, strengthening long-term household financial stability.
  Alabama Cooperative Extension System – Alabama A&M University. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement. 

Photo courtesy of Alabama Cooperative Extension System – Alabama A&M University.