Tuesday, October 04, 2016

USDA awards 29 grants for $5.8M for rural economic development in 21 states

The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced 29 grants totaling $5.8 million to help rural cooperatives in 21 states "create jobs and support business expansion," says a USDA press release. Funds are through the Rural Cooperative Development Grant program, which helps fund non-profit groups.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said: "America's rural communities have incredible potential to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. Many rural businesses and organizations are succeeding under the cooperative business model, and with access to additional resources, they can boost job creation and create an environment where more products are made in rural America. The funding USDA is announcing today will provide the critical training and technical assistance rural cooperatives and non-profit groups need to help strengthen America's 'Main Street' businesses." 

Recipients can use the grants "for feasibility studies, strategic planning, leadership and operations training and business plan development," says USDA. "Recipients are required to contribute matching funds that equal 25 percent of total project costs." For a full list of grant recipients click here.

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