Becky McCray

Becky McCray is a lifelong rural entrepreneur, cattle rancher and co-founder of SaveYour.Town. Her own hands-on successes and failures as a retail business owner, city administrator, nonprofit executive and community volunteer—all in small towns—make her a sought-after expert on rural communities. Her book, "The Idea Friendly Guide," helps people transform their community by taking small steps without waiting for permission, support or perfect conditions.

McCray created the influential Survey of Rural Challenges, published biennially since 2015 and used by agencies, educators and businesses to better understand and serve rural people. She often collaborates on rural publications, initiatives, advisory boards, listening sessions and advocacy events including Oklahoma State University’s Rural Renewal Initiative, the American Independent Business Alliance, and the Harvard Kennedy School’s Reimagining the Economy Project.

McCray earned her BS in Business Administration and certificates in Facilitating for Results and Workforce Quality Leadership. She has presented at more than 300 rural and small town events in the US, Canada, UK and Australia, including Main Street America, International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and TEDx. She makes her home in Hopeton, Oklahoma, a community of 30 people. Her goal is to deliver practical steps you can put into action right away to shape the future of your town.