USDA Announces Rural Economic Development Grants
Deputy U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Kathleen Marrigan recently announced that USDA is accepting applications for more than $6.25 million in competitive grants under the Rural Community Development Initiative program administered by USDA Rural Development. These funds underscore the importance the Obama Administration places on helping rural business to develop the capacity to address critical housing, community and economic development needs.
"The funding announced today will improve the ability of local organizations to deliver enhanced services in housing, community facilities and economic development and strengthen America's small cities and towns," said Merrigan. "These grants will increase economic opportunity and the quality of life in rural areas as the Obama Administration continues working to rebuild and revitalize rural America."
To be eligible for the Rural Community Development Initiative, applicants must provide matching funds equal to the grant they receive. This leveraging requirement increases the impact of the funding received from USDA. Grant awards are contingent upon the recipient meeting the conditions of the grant award. Eligible applicants include public or private (including tribal) organizations at least three years in existence that have experience working with eligible recipients. Recipients can be private non-profit organizations, community-based housing and development organizations, low-income rural communities, or federally recognized tribes.
USDA Rural Development's mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development, and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development's website here.
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