AMES – Community and economic development organizations are partnering with the U.S. Small Business Administration, USDA-Rural Development and other sponsors to host a free, Rural Young Entrepreneur Summit on Nov. 9.

The summit will be held in the Scheman Building on the Iowa State University campus, in Ames, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Small Business Administration Deputy Secretary Marie Johns and USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Doug O’Brien will discuss their perspectives and success stories from around the country.

Gov. Terry Branstad and Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey have been invited.

The purpose of the program is to provide an opportunity for young and emerging entrepreneurs to: hear success stories from other rural entrepreneurs, listen to and share ideas for improving entrepreneurial development opportunities in rural America and make contact with other rural entrepreneurs and support networks.

There will be a networking reception and trade show featuring local Iowa foods.

Rural YES recognizes outstanding young entrepreneurs and shares their success stories from across rural America to inspire others to participate in creating an entrepreneurial culture in Iowa

Organizers believe this provides greater opportunity for successful enterprise development and support in the future.

Organizers are seeking young entrepreneurs from rural Iowa to relate their success stories during Rural YES.

Those interested in nominating someone for recognition at this event can contact Mark Edelman, director of ISU’s Community Vitality Center at:

medelman@iastate.edu.