RDC and NMRDRC Join Forces. 

RDC formed a  strategic partnership with NM Rural Development Response Council (NMRDRC) on Oct 1, 2009 to better serve rural NM communities, particularly those communities with a population under 15,000.  Under the terms of a contract that will run until September 30, 2010, the RDC will be responsible for providing technical assistance to NM rural communities and businesses that require specialized assistance for: product feasibility analysis, marketing and business plans and energy efficiency improvments.
 
Also, the RDC will administer the “E-Communities” Initiative in six rural communities to including Clayton,Cuba, Fort Sumner, Raton, Santa Rosa, Tucumcari.  This "wiki" based eCommunity will collaborate on grant proposals, board meetings, strategic plans; and most importantly, on how to strength and manage their own projects.
 
According to RDC’s Executive Director, Ed Burckle, this new partnership with NMRDRC is a win/win for both organizations.  “Not only does this partnership save money for each non-profit entity, it will improve economic delivery services to NM communities because it leverages the strengths of the two organizations.  The RDC has strong program management expertise and the NMRDRC has a 17 year record of helping underserved communities.  Together we can be more effective and efficient.”
 
To help with program delivery, the RDC hired Ms. Kathy Roberts, Rural Programs Manager, to lead the E-Communities Initiative and work closely with rural entities seeking technical assistance under an existing Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) with the US Department of Agriculture.  Kathy may be reached at kroberts@ruraldevelopmentnm.org or (505) 795-6852.