Economic mobility in rural Holmes County, Ohio – an area home to a large Amish population – has recently drawn national attention for how young people thrive compared to their predecessors. As economic development practitioners, we see powerful lessons from Holmes County that can inspire small towns across the country, especially in Florida, where many communities face similar challenges of diversifying their economies. Holmes County is next door to Wayne County, where the City of Wooster is the economic driver. We completed the Wooster Economic Development Plan in 2023 and are very familiar with this area.

The Wall Street Journal just explored this in detail. Here are five key takeaways from the economic mobility success that the Amish in Holmes County have that can help drive hands-dirty, on-the-ground local economic development in small towns:

1. Foster Entrepreneurial Networks and Collaboration

Holmes County thrives on what one economist calls an “extreme networking effect,” where businesses, often family-run, support each other. Even competitors share resources and opportunities when needed. This community-driven cooperation has helps grow businesses that provide steady, well-paying jobs.

Why This Matters: Create spaces for local business owners to meet regularly, collaborate, and share best practices. Chambers of commerce, business associations, or informal networking events can help. Facilitate shared tools, spaces, or even skilled labor to make it easier for entrepreneurs to access local resources.

2. Leverage Community Bonds for Economic Growth

Amish culture emphasizes staying close to home, which has kept young people in the area and spurred local job creation. Many Holmes County businesses hire from within their communities and invest in ensuring employees earn a fair wage.

Why This Matters: Encourage young people to stay in your town by creating pathways to local employment or entrepreneurship. Incentivize businesses to invest in training programs that target young talent and local workers, ensuring that local jobs go to local residents. Create and maintain a quality place with good aesthetics and activities and highlight and build on the sense of community pride and ownership to inspire long-term investments.

3. Pivot from Agriculture to Small-Scale Manufacturing

The shift from dairy farming to small-scale manufacturing has fueled Holmes County’s growth. As farming became less economically sustainable in the face of corporate and industry farming practices, families adapted by opening small businesses and tapping into broader markets.

Why This Matters: If agriculture has been a cornerstone of your town, explore opportunities for diversification. Encourage local farmers to branch into agribusiness, processing, or small-scale manufacturing. Leverage your community’s existing skills to build new industries that align with modern market needs, whether that’s local crafts, manufacturing, or tourism.

4. Build Strong Public-Private Partnerships

Holmes County’s Economic Development Council has played a pivotal role in fostering over $160 million in investment and 1,100 new jobs. Public-private partnerships have helped drive the area’s economic growth.

Why This Matters: Partner with local businesses, government, and nonprofits to pool resources for economic development. Whether it’s building new infrastructure, attracting outside investment, or supporting local startups, a coordinated effort will yield far greater results. The public and private sectors working together ensure that growth is aligned with community needs.

5. Encourage a Values-Driven Work Ethic

One of the standout traits of Holmes County’s success is the deep-rooted work ethic, often tied to Amish values. For many entrepreneurs, it’s not about amassing wealth but creating sustainable livelihoods for their employees and community.

Why This Matters: Instill a sense of purpose in local businesses, encouraging them to invest in their workers and the wider community. When people feel they are contributing to something greater than just their bottom line, they’re more likely to reinvest locally. Promote a values-driven narrative around hard work, integrity, and community well-being to create a strong local economic culture.

Holmes County shows that strong local networks, community support, and adaptability can transform a rural economy into a hub of upward mobility. By focusing on these core strategies, small towns across Florida and beyond can build a foundation for lasting economic success.

If your community is looking to boost economic mobility and create sustainable growth, look to Holmes County’s hands-on lessons. It’s not just about innovation but collaboration, entrepreneurship, and staying connected to your roots.

Let’s start shaping a vibrant, resilient local economy. Right here at home.