About

The University of Central Arkansas Center for Community and Economic Development (CCED) received a three-year grant from the to support the development and implementation of the Community Development Pipeline program. The vision of the Community Development Pipeline program is to train community leaders on foundational community and economic development principles, positively impact and uplift the economies and quality of life of communities whose leaders participate in the program, and develop new relationships that build bridges across Arkansas communities. The Community Development Pipeline program will provide training and technical assistance to community leaders in Washington and Benton counties.

Community Development Pipeline Program (2026 – 2028)

A new cohort of 25 leaders representing Washington and Benton counties have been selected to participate in the Community Development Pipeline program from Spring 2026 through Fall 2028. Participants were chosen through a competitive application process.

 Cohort members include:

Leaders who participate in the program receive:

• A three-year scholarship (Year 1, Year 2, and Year 3) and travel expense support to the University of Central Arkansas Ìý(°ä¶Ù±õ)

• The opportunity and support to become certified as a 

• Access to a variety of technical assistance support services for their community (based on community needs)

• Networking opportunities with leaders across the region, state, and nation

Community Development Pipeline Program (2023 – 2025)

Twenty-two (22) community leaders from Benton and Washington counties completed the Community Development Pipeline program (2023 – 2025).  Join us in celebrating this cohort on their achievements through the program! You can learn more about the program’s impact on this cohort .

Read the press release announcing the participants HERE.

Testimonials:

Testimonials from Community Development Pipeline cohorts.