Rural South Institute Inc

The Rural South Institute Inc, with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 834260118, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting agricultural development and entrepreneurship in rural communities, particularly focusing on underprivileged youth and minority producers.

Overview

The organization aims to be a leader in agribusiness consulting and in providing educational programs, mentorship, outreach training, and technical assistance. Its motto, Umunthu, emphasizes humanity to others, highlighting the importance of interpersonal relationships and community involvement. Umunthu originates from the Chichewa language, meaning "humanity to others" and emphasizing allegiances and relations among people.

Programs and Services

• Education: The institute offers high-quality educational programs tailored for secondary and post-secondary students, inner-city youths, farm managers, and rural entrepreneurs.
• Financial Literacy and Management: It provides financial literacy training and management guidance to help participants make informed financial decisions.
• Mentoring and Outreach: The institute offers mentoring services and outreach training programs designed to support rural entrepreneurs and agricultural producers.
• Consultation and Technical Assistance: It provides consultation services and technical assistance to help participants navigate various aspects of agriculture and entrepreneurship.
• Crop Insurance and Risk Management Education: The Rural South Institute promotes crop insurance and risk management education, particularly among producers of color, aligning with broader efforts to enhance equity in agricultural practices.

Financials

As of 2023, the Rural South Institute reported revenues of approximately $669,000 and expenses of about $647,000. The organization's total assets were valued at $230,000, with total liabilities of $142,000[3][5].

Partnerships and Funding

The institute collaborates with various entities and receives funding from governmental and private sources, supporting its initiatives to promote agricultural risk management education among underserved communities.

Mission and Impact

The Rural South Institute's mission is to empower underprivileged youth and minority agricultural producers, fostering equitable access to agricultural resources and knowledge. By doing so, it aims to strengthen rural communities and contribute to a more inclusive agricultural industry.