Research Initiatives

The Rural Philanthropy Institute, in partnership with The Numad Group and faculty at higher education institutions such as the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and Southern Methodist University, engage in academic research initiatives focused on the impact of the nonprofit sector in rural communities—and entire states. The research is interpreted and disseminated for the benefit of academics and practitioners.

Nonprofit Impact Studies

RPI completes research initiatives on nonprofit sector in rural states and regions. The most recent research study looked at the size, scope and economic contribution of the nonprofit sector in South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, Iowa and Minnesota.

Study of The South Dakota Nonprofit Sector: Size and Scope, Financial patterns, and Economic Contributions (2019)

RPI Research Fellows

The Rural Philanthropy Institute sponsors research fellowships at institutions across the country in an effort to expand and improve the scholarship on Philanthropy and the nonprofit sector in rural America. A first of its it kind program, fellows specifically explore the intersection of rural America and the nonprofit sector. Fellows seek to understand more about the impact of the nonprofit sector in rural communities through a variety of lenses including economic, philanthropic, and sociological. Importantly, our fellows emphasize research that cultivates rural perspectives ensuring that results originate from, are disseminated to, and serve the rural communities involved. We believe this research will not only expand scholarship but will directly serve the rural nonprofit sector by establishing and promoting best practices and providing much needed data to make informed decisions and improve nonprofit community sustaibability.

Resources for Rural Research

There are many organizations across the country dedicated to research on Rural America. These institutions can offer valuable insight as we continue to explore the dynamic nature of the rural nonprofit sector. Below are a few of our favorites.