This guidebook presents 64 profiles of successful economic development initiatives in the small towns and rural areas of 37 states. Intended for use by rural and small town leaders and rural economic development specialists, the guide provides ideas, encouragement, and an "insider perspective" on alternative rural development strategies. Each two-page profile describes the project and the type of organization involved and includes funding information, benefits to date, and a local contact person. Extensive quotes from local community leaders highlight keys to success and pitfalls to avoid in implementing similar approaches elsewhere. Each successful rural development effort carries at least one of the following hallmarks: (1) capitalizes on existing resources; (2) focuses on adding value to existing products; (3) aggressively pursues case transfer strategies; (4) helps existing businesses stay and expand; (5) incorporates education into the long-term effort; (6) seeks training and capacity building for local leaders; and (7) emphasizes research, planning, and long-term consistency. About 22 of these projects attracted industry to rural areas or developed industrial parks, 16 concentrated on small businesses, and 10 focused on tourism. (Author/SV)