Increasing Strategic Funding Is a Smart Play for Rural Communities That Want to Compete
Rural community colleges are the front line of workforce development. They deliver hands-on training, reskill adult learners, and close workforce gaps across essential industries like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, logistics, and education.
However, despite their impact, many rural institutions employ funding models that don't align with the scale of their responsibilities.
The new whitepaper from Convergent Nonprofit Solutions provides rural community college presidents, business leaders, and public sector stakeholders with a practical framework for change.
Get Clear on the Problem Facing Rural Community Colleges
Shrinking state and federal funding. Aging infrastructure. Fewer traditional students. Rising demand for non-degree, workforce-aligned programs. The whitepaper outlines the five systemic barriers stalling growth for rural community colleges and shows how outdated public funding models fall short.
Without new investment strategies, rural community colleges risk being forced to cut programs at the very moment their communities need more targeted training and skilled workers.
Learn What Works
Rural community colleges aren't waiting. They're adapting faster than traditional institutions and building smarter, leaner workforce solutions that fit real-world needs.
In this whitepaper, you'll get clear, measurable examples of how rural community colleges are already solving for speed, scale, and sustainability, often with fewer resources than their urban and suburban counterparts.
Fund the Outcomes That Matter
The whitepaper demonstrates how Convergent Nonprofit Solutions assists colleges in developing funding strategies that align with outcomes, rather than just enrollment numbers.
Our Investment-Driven Model™ shifts fundraising away from emotional appeals and toward impact, making it easier to bring in private sector support, community investment, and philanthropic dollars.
Built for Decision-Makers
This whitepaper serves as a field manual for presidents, boards, employers, and policymakers who want to lead rather than react to workforce challenges and shortages in their community. Whether you're navigating enrollment declines, designing new career pathways, or trying to future-proof your regional workforce, this whitepaper will help you frame the conversation and move from pilot to permanence.
Read the full strategy. See the data. Learn how rural community colleges are redefining workforce development and what it will take to scale that success.
Testimonials
Andrew Keenan
“The fact that Convergent could make the ask was huge. Working with our director and joining solicitations made me a better fundraiser – that was the right formula for us. Moving forward I feel much more confident in making asks and telling our story, and that is going to make us more sustainable in the long run.”
Andrew Keenan, Executive Director Callanwolde Fine Arts Center | Atlanta, GA
Lisa Zaken
“In the span of six short months, our Board went from being nervous about the initial campaign investment to being ecstatic with the attainment of our goal, and our subsequent stretch goal! Convergent can do it like no other. Their system is rigorous and extremely effective. We have nothing but great things to say about this organization!”
Lisa Zaken, President & CEO Leadership Gwinnett | Duluth, GA
Dion Davis
“The strategy and support offered by Convergent helped our Board expand its vision for the Foundation, which in turn helped to refocus and redefine our organization's impact in our community. The methodology behind their capital campaign process not only helps to raise more money in the immediate, but it also builds best practices for long-term investor relations and lays groundwork for the success of future funding initiatives.”
Dion Davis, Former Executive Director Jekyll Island Foundation | Jekyll Island, GA
Robin Mauck
“Working with Convergent has been a pleasure all the way around. Their approach is customized to your organization and their expertise is unmatched in the field. The Convergent team immersed themselves in our process, culture, and goals to provide exceptional value during our campaign. They truly walk alongside you every step of the way!”
Robin Mauck, Executive Director Obria Medical Clinics Gwinnett | Lawrenceville, GA
Aimee Hall
“I loved working with Convergent. I never could have done what Convergent did. If you want to run a successful campaign, you need to bring in that expertise. Thanks to their help, our capital campaign really took us to the next level within our community.”
Aimee Hall, Executive Director Safe Homes Domestic Violence Center | Augusta, GA
Phillip Aldridge
“I wanted to thank everyone from the Convergent team who assisted in our campaign. Of the varying ways the campaign’s success may be measured, I count it a blessing that we achieved what we did. Not just the funds committed but the contacts made, the level of exposure reached, and ultimately, what the funds and exposure mean in terms of how many more we now serve as a result. My thanks is in recognition and appreciation for Convergent serving as our fundraising counsel and for the patience and professionalism demonstrated throughout the campaign. You were a godsend for Valley Healthcare!”
Phillip Aldridge, Board Chair Valley Healthcare System | Colombus, GA
Jeff Taylor
“Early in our campaign feasibility study it became apparent that we lacked the Asking Rights necessary to conduct a capital campaign. As a result, Convergent’s knowledgeable consultants prepared an extensive plan of action that is a road map for growing our awareness and philanthropy. A successful capital campaign will be possible in the near future. Their entrepreneurial approach will definitely get you where you want to go.”
Jeff Taylor, CEO MedCura Health, formerly Oakhurst Medical Center | Stone Mountain, GA
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