Lipinski Rural Initiatives Award

Former Farm Credit East CEO Bill Lipinski was an advocate for Northeast rural communities. During his tenure, he witnessed the economic success of some rural areas while others faced hardships, including real or perceived lack of job opportunities/loss of key employers, declining populations/demographics, etc. Lipinski understood that the long-term success of Farm Credit customers depends on not only the vitality of their individual business, but also on the health of the rural communities where they are based, and he knew Farm Credit East could do more to combat this disparity among rural communities. That is why the Farm Credit East Board of Directors established the Lipinski Rural Initiatives Award upon his retirement – to grow the organization's support of rural communities in his honor.

Nominees should be based in Farm Credit East’s territory, although nominees from outside the territory may be eligible if the initiative for which they are being nominated is positively impacting the rural areas of Farm Credit East’s territory (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont). Self-nominations are permitted.

The Lipinski Rural Initiatives Award is to recognize previous, existing and/or ongoing initiatives. It is not intended as a grant to fund future projects, although it is hoped the financial award and the recognition from receiving the award will enhance the recipients’ ability to continue to make a positive impact in the future.

The award aims to recognize and reward programs, projects, individuals, businesses, organizations and/or institutions that:

• Create jobs in rural areas of the Northeast.

• Contribute to the quality of life in rural communities.

• Enhance the infrastructure, such as community facilities and broadband, necessary for strong rural economies.

This award is not intended to recognize innovative production agriculture practices unless there is a broader impact beyond the farm level. 

Funds will be provided directly to the recipient. Awards will be made at the sole discretion of the selection committee.

Nominate yourself or another producer directly from the online form on this page.

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