The Office of Rural Prosperity works across sectors to foster strategic and coordinated investments in people and places, with an intentional focus on building the capacity and resources necessary meet complex rural needs. Founded in 2022 as the Office of Rural Development by Executive Directive in 2022-01, the office was renamed the Office of Rural Prosperity by Executive Order in 2023 (EO 2023-06).
The Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity is helping communities prepare for change and opportunity.
The Rural Readiness Program is a multi-pronged approach to building capacity and readiness in Michigan’s rural communities through networked support, funding opportunities, and leadership development.
Michigan’s first-ever report focused on rural issues, the Roadmap to Rural Prosperity, gives a voice to rural communities, fosters a statewide understanding of rural needs and priorities and helps guide local, regional and state leaders in advancing collaborative and collective action to achieve prosperity across rural Michigan.
The Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP) holds events across the state to connect rural communities and leaders, community organizations, policy makers and other interested parties to identify and meet the needs of rural communities, ultimately preparing all communities across Michigan for economic development and success.
In 2025, we strengthened the foundation for rural Michigan’s future. Guided by our Building Blocks of Successful Communities framework, we supported communities in building the leadership, partnerships, governance and grant readiness needed to turn vision into action. We expanded the Rural Readiness Network, advanced rural voices in state-level conversations, delivered targeted technical assistance and helped translate local priorities into real investment and impact.
Our work continues to ensure that rural communities are not just included in opportunity — but prepared for it.
Check out our conversations with rural leaders across Michigan who are strengthening partnerships and driving positive change. Together, we’re giving communities relevant, timely information and resources to help them prepare to build capacity for future growth and development.
| Contact Name and Title | Contact Email Address |
|---|---|
| Sarah Lucas, Director, Office of Rural Prosperity | LucasS5@Michigan.gov |
| Lisa Miller, Director, Partnership and Engagement | MillerL45@michigan.gov |
| Henry Wolf, Director, Policy and Grant Programs | WolfH@michigan.gov |
| Amanda Scott, Rural Readiness Coordinator | scotta35@michigan.gov |
| Charly Loper, Community Support Specialist | loperc2@michigan.gov |
| Seth Carlson, Strategic Engagement Analyst | carlsons14@michigan.gov |
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