What does it take for rural communities to compete and grow in today's economy?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Jolene Schalper, EVP of the Great Falls Montana Development Alliance, to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping rural economic development.

Jolene shares her journey from nonprofit leadership into economic development and explains how collaboration, creativity, and community trust play critical roles in driving regional growth.

The conversation highlights how Great Falls is leveraging local strengths to support entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create long-term economic momentum. Workforce and housing challenges are also a major focus, with Jolene emphasizing the importance of data-driven strategies and proactive planning to support sustainable growth.

The discussion also explores how rural communities can position themselves competitively for larger opportunities, including foreign direct investment, while still maintaining strong local identity and community connections.

A key takeaway? Rural communities have unique advantages—and with the right leadership, partnerships, and vision, they can compete far beyond their size.

Key Takeaways

• Rural communities can compete by leveraging local strengths and partnerships

• Collaboration and trust-building are essential for long-term growth

• Entrepreneurship plays a major role in rural economic resilience

• Housing and workforce challenges require proactive, data-driven solutions

• Creativity and adaptability are critical in economic development leadership

• Rural regions can successfully attract major investment opportunities

Key Topics Covered

• Rural economic development strategies

• Community collaboration and leadership

• Entrepreneurship and small business support

• Workforce and housing challenges

• Foreign direct investment opportunities

• Professional development in economic development

Sound Bites

• "Data drives decisions in our housing strategy."

• "We swing for the fences to grow our community."

• "Second place sucks—no ribbon for losing."