Future research / gaps identified: Investigate how communities are individually managing applicants to the Rural Renewal and Rural Entrepreneur streams, and identifying promising practices that communities and government could review. Integration timeline: not defined Locations: Rural Alberta Brooks Hanna Drumheller Taber Claresholm Drayton Valley Fort Macleod Hinton Lac La Biche Peace River Paintearth County Slave Lake Trochu Two Hills Vegreville Wainwright Wood Buffalo Region Open access: Yes Community organizations: AAISA Key findings: Transportation and housing were identified as the biggest barriers to providing services for newcomers in rural Alberta. Other challenges newcomers faced included language barriers, social isolation, and limited access to settlement services. Some newcomers were reluctant to pursue services due to precarious statuses or the belief that they will eventually move to a city with more available services. Community organizations and government programs play a crucial role in helping newcomers settle in rural areas, such as by providing language training, employment support, housing assistance, and social and cultural integration programs. Challenges faced by newcomers can also be addressed by community organizations and government programs that provide access to essential services, connect newcomers to communities, and help newcomers navigate the settlement process. Collaboration between organizations/programs and dedicated staff are crucial in the success of existing efforts to welcome newcomers. Key populations: newcomers who have settled/are settling in rural Alberta Key recommendations: Develop and implement a comprehensive settlement strategy that addresses the unique needs of rural newcomers. Build partnerships between community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to coordinate settlement services and support. Provide access to transportation and affordable housing to help newcomers access services and integrate into the community. Offer language training and employment support to help newcomers find work and communicate effectively with others. Create social and cultural integration programs that help newcomers connect with other community members and build relationships. Leverage volunteer opportunities to encourage community connections for newcomers. Hire dedicated settlement staff or assigning specific individuals to settlement services. Explore innovative solutions to address challenges around rural transportation, such as partnering with school buses or volunteer driving agencies.