The countdown is on! In just 18 days, rural leaders, innovators, and community champions will gather in Opelika, Alabama, for the Rural Renaissance Roadshow (Nov. 10–12, 2025) – and we want YOU to be a part of it!
What’s Happening?
You’ll enjoy three days packed with thought-provoking keynotes, dynamic panels, hands-on workshops, and immersive field trips. Highlights include:
Opening Night Celebration (Nov. 10)
Mingle with local leaders from Groundswell’s CEO, Michelle Moore, to Auburn’s Mayor, Ron Anders, and City Manager, Megan McGowan, during our welcome reception and award ceremony honoring this year’s Rural Power Champion awardees. Cap it off with live music from Nashville artist Jervis Campbell!
Keynotes that Inspire (Nov. 11)
Hear from Andrew Freear of Auburn’s Rural Studio on building resilience by design and join Anthony F. Pipa and leaders from CapZone, Bridgeforth Farms, and the Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy as they share strategies for rural prosperity.
Parallel Sessions on Four Tracks
Choose from more than a dozen sessions covering housing & health, energy systems, water systems, and food systems featuring experts like Katie Ottenweller of Google, Adaora Ifebigh of Sol Systems, Anne Brody of American Flood Coalition, and Jim Malooley of Silicon Ranch.
Field Trips & Workshops (Nov. 12)
Get out of the conference hall! Tour Auburn University’s Rural Studio in Newbern, explore regenerative farming at White Oak Pastures, see resilience initiatives in Lanett, Alabama, or learn storytelling strategy with Resource Rural Communications guru Ralph Jean.
Fun and Networking
Enjoy plenty of breaks to connect with fellow attendees, a Taste of Opelika food celebration, film screenings, all culminating with a bowling night!
Why Attend?
You’ll gain tools to build resilience in your community, meet like-minded rural leaders from across the country, and leave inspired to implement innovative solutions back home.
Don’t Miss Out!
Seats are filling fast, and our discounted hotel block at the Auburn Marriott Resort & Spa expires October 24. Register now to secure your spot and lock in your room rate!
We can’t wait to see you in Alabama as we celebrate and strengthen rural resilience together.
Warmly,
The Groundswell Team