NRFC is currently involved in discussions with partners within the Learning Network to develop a national rural policy agenda. Because rural areas are so geographically diverse and dealing with a variety of issues and challenges, finding a common agenda for a network to develop is a challenge. At the same time, there are certain opportunities in the political landscape that are worth exploring. At this time, broad conversations about rural economy in a global world, the President’s proposed 2006 budget with community development budget cuts, and the “Ownership Society” are being explored for issues upon which we might be able to build movement.