The RAGCED global network of experts is ready to help you create successful, impactful, and sustainable projects that invest in communities and change lives!

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OUR MISSION

The mission of the Rotary Action Group for Community Economic Development (RAGCED) is to be a source of knowledge and expertise that helps Rotarians plan, implement, and manage impactful and sustainable economic development projects and create lasting change in poor and underserved communities.

 
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July 2025 Message from RAGCED President Wally Gardiner

Welcome to a New Era of Action and Transformation at RAGCED

 

 

Dear Friends and Fellow Rotarians,

It is an honor for me to address you at the beginning of this new chapter in my Rotary journey as Chair of the Rotary Action Group for Community Economic Development (RAGCED).

I am excited about the opportunity to lead this global initiative, which works tirelessly to strengthen community economic development and improve the living conditions of the world’s most vulnerable communities. My main objective in this role is to continue building on RAGCED’s strong foundation and deepen our commitment to combating poverty and creating a more prosperous and equitable future for all.

 

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: JUNE 2025
by PDG Carl W. Treleaven
 
As they say, “time flies”! It seems I just began serving as President of the Rotary Action Group for Community Economic Development (RAGCED), but in just a few weeks, my two-year term will end, and I will turn the reins of RAGCED over to Wally Gardiner, the very capable President-Elect. Serving as President has been a great pleasure!
 
Empowering Communities Through Technology: Community Economic Development in Action
 
By Rakesh Babuji,

In an increasingly digital world, the path to sustainable progress for underserved regions lies not just in infrastructure or finance—but in empowering communities with knowledge, skills, and technology. This philosophy lies at the heart of Community Economic Development (CED), a grassroots approach that helps communities identify their challenges and collaboratively build solutions to improve economic well-being and quality of life.
 
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The following projects are illustrative examples based on RAGCED's areas of focus, they reflect the kind of impact RAGCED aims to achieve worldwide:

Microfinance and Microcredit Initiatives

These projects provide small loans to entrepreneurs in developing countries who do not have access to traditional banking services. The goal is to empower individuals to start or expand their businesses, thus creating jobs and fostering economic development within their communities. An example could involve setting up a Microfinance institution in a rural area to offer financial services, including small loans, savings accounts, and financial literacy training.
Vocational Training and Education Programs
 
Vocational training projects focus on equipping people with specific skills needed in the local job market, such as carpentry, sewing, or digital skills. For instance, a project might establish a vocational training centre where unemployed youth can learn trade skills, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, significantly improving their employment prospects and ability to contribute economically to their communities.
Agricultural Development Projects
 
These projects support smallholder farmers by providing them with access to improved seeds, irrigation techniques, and sustainable farming practices. An example project could involve the introduction of a drip irrigation system to a drought-prone area, combined with training sessions on sustainable farming practices and crop management, thereby increasing crop yields and farmers' incomes.
Entrepreneurship Development Programs
 
Entrepreneurship programs aim to foster a culture of innovation and business creation. Such a project might include workshops and mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs, covering business planning, marketing, and access to finance. A specific example could be a startup incubator program that supports women entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and seed funding to launch their businesses.
Community Infrastructure Projects
 
Infrastructure projects focus on building or improving community assets that support economic activities, such as markets, roads, or co-working spaces. An infrastructure project under RAGCED's guidance might involve constructing a community center that doubles as a co-working space for local entrepreneurs, providing them with a venue for business operations and networking events.
Market Access and Value Chain Development 
 
These initiatives help producers and manufacturers improve their products and access wider markets. A project might support artisan groups by facilitating connections with global markets through e-commerce platforms, alongside training in quality control and packaging, thereby increasing their sales and income levels.
 

Projects associated with RAGCED typically embody Rotary's commitment to community service, with a focus on economic empowerment. They leverage the global Rotary network's resources, expertise, and volunteer spirit to make a sustainable impact. For the most recent and detailed examples of RAGCED projects, direct engagement with Rotary International or RAGCED's official communications is recommended, as they continuously update their initiatives and success stories.

The RAGCED Mission in Action
Stay updated on our latest initiatives and global impact, empowering communities worldwide.
 

Share your story!

We will post different success stories on our website, be part of our TEAM!

If you like to share your story, please contact our Editor, Gomathy T M at, email. 

As part of our media campaign, we would like to share with you many great stories about how people have progressed, how they are growing their businesses and how they are improving their lives with Microloans and Microcredits.

This is part of how we share great news and you may end up being part of this new wave of empowerment. 

If you are a woman you know how tough it is to raise a family, work and fight for a better future. At RAGCED we know of hundreds who have done just that, and now they are their bosses, with their own business and a bright future for them and their families. 

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