A community
where rural leaders
connect and
grow together.
What happens when passionate rural leaders come together to solve challenges and share opportunities?
A small group of entrepreneurial ecosystem builders came together in West Virginia to explore this question, creating RuralRISE as a dedicated space to empower rural communities and the individuals driving their success.
Since our establishment, we have grown into a dynamic, grassroots community across North America and beyond. RuralRISE provides a space for rural voices to connect, learn, and grow, together.
From Our Co-Founder
On behalf of the entire RuralRISE community, welcome!
We celebrate the resilience, innovation, and hard work of rural leaders across the nation.
Born from a grassroots effort, RuralRISE began when a small group of entrepreneurial ecosystem builders gathered to develop creative solutions for rural communities. What started as a conversation has grown into a powerful network connecting individuals from every state, supported by resources and connections to foster collaboration and success.
We believe in the power of community. This is a space where rural leaders, changemakers, and innovators come together to share knowledge, celebrate achievements, and inspire one another. Whether you’re leading initiatives in a small rural town or collaborating across larger rural regions, you belong here. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for rural America.
We are thrilled to have you join us as we continue to celebrate and amplify rural communities’ voices and stories!
Tina Metzer
Who We Are
RuralRISE creates opportunities for engagement, celebrates achievements, and inspires action while fostering an open and inclusive community where rural leaders can connect, share, and grow together — regardless of size or location.
We provide a space where you can find knowledge and comfort in connecting and engaging with others in similar settings, ready to support and collaborate with you.
Tina Metzer
Co-Founder
From non-profits to the private sector, Tina possesses an array of skills and experiences. A West Virginia native, she has worked in the nonprofit community as a career and volunteer for most of her life.
Tina is deeply committed to identifying and cultivating opportunities that can enhance the growth and prosperity of rural communities including bridging the digital divide.
Tina developed a strong sense of devotion to rural communities, non-profits, and entrepreneurship at an early age. Like most young people after graduating, Tina left West Virginia for new opportunities. However, a strong sense of allegiance brought her and her family back to West Virginia. Early on in her career, working as a project manager of a large industrial auctioneering firm, Tina saw the impact of large companies leaving rural areas, completely changing the landscape and economic stability of a region.
Most recently, Tina managed a variety of projects with a focus on rural issues, agriculture and technology for Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College.
When not working, she is usually found with her daughters as well as her many pets. To her, relaxation is hiking and reading.
Joe Kapp
Co-Founder
Joe is a serial entrepreneur, president and co-founder of the National Center for Resource Development (NCRD), a non-governmental organization that helps organizations achieve greater impact by more effectively executing their goals by applying entrepreneurial principles.
In 2024, Joe was named Chairman of the board of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Profiled in the Washington Post Magazine for his leadership in entrepreneurship, he works internationally coaching businesses, entrepreneurs and communities on innovation ecosystem development. In 2022, Kapp was asked to present at the United Nations General Assembly Science Summit and has worked across the globe with startups and communities including in countries Including: Armenia, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Colombia, Russia, Eswatini and the Netherlands.
In 2016, the United States Department of Commerce appointed Kapp to the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship. In partnership with various foundations and funders like the Kauffman Foundation and the AARP Foundation, Kapp has also launched a number of United States entrepreneurial ecosystem initiatives including National Entrepreneurship Week and RuralRISE, which focus on entrepreneurship development and increasing access to resources and opportunities for all Americans.
When not working, Joe enjoys traveling, scuba diving and photography.
What We Do
Community Building
Connecting those who are passionate about rural innovation and leadership by fostering a supportive global network through programming, networking and groups across social media spaces.
Programs and Resource Sharing
Highlighting the successes, challenges, and unique experiences affecting rural communities and their leaders through blogs, newsletters, and recorded content.
Our Approach
We believe that innovation and growth are not confined by location. We use the power of online communities to bridge gaps and build better futures for rural communities.
Ensure all rural areas have access to opportunities and resources they need to thrive.
Work closely with industry leaders and organizations to understand and address the unique needs of rural communities.
Partner with global organizations to bring innovative solutions and resources to rural communities.
Leverage technology and innovative solutions to bridge the digital divide and empower rural communities.
Promote environmentally friendly practices that ensure the long-term health and prosperity of rural areas.
Our Core Initiatives
RuralRISE began with a focus on entrepreneurs and the entrepreneurial ecosystem, recognizing their critical role in driving innovation and opportunity in rural communities. Over time, we have grown and added to our mission, placing a renewed emphasis on broadband access as increased funding and programs flow into rural areas – thus RuralRISE Tech was created a 501(c)3. The ability to connect all members of rural communities is transformative, impacting every facet of rural life and fostering new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
We also understand that sustainable initiatives are vital to the long-term economic development and resilience of rural communities.
At RuralRISE, we believe that strong connections and shared knowledge are the foundation of thriving rural communities. Our mission is to connect like-minded individuals who are passionate about rural innovation and leadership, creating a network that fosters collaboration, learning, and support.
We bring together entrepreneurs, community leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders to share experiences, exchange ideas, and develop solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by rural areas. We provide opportunities for members to engage with one another, building lasting relationships that span industries, sectors, and geographic boundaries.
By cultivating this vibrant and inclusive community, we not only support individual growth but also strengthen the collective impact of rural leaders. RuralRISE is dedicated to empowering rural innovators and ensuring that no one feels isolated in their work. Together, we’re fostering a movement that uplifts rural communities across the nation and beyond.
Sustainable economic development in rural communities focuses on fostering growth that balances economic prosperity, responsible resource management, and community well-being. It involves creating opportunities that address immediate needs while building long-term resilience for future generations. By investing in initiatives, such as broadband expansion, and small business development, and sustainable agriculture, rural communities can diversify their economies and enhance self-sufficiency. This approach emphasizes leveraging assets—such as waste products, workforce skills, and cultural heritage—while ensuring these resources are managed thoughtfully and effectively. By prioritizing these efforts, rural areas can attract investment, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for residents, all while preserving the unique character and vibrancy of these communities.
