Federal grants available to assist in rural economic development
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Wed, 12/11/2013 - 10:47am
CARSON CITY — Tribes, economic development authorities, non-profits and towns in rural Nevada that want to support rural business or create a revolving loan fund for business may want to consider applying for USDA Rural Development’s Rural Business Enterprise Grant.
The purpose of the RBEG is to support the creation and growth of sustainable rural business opportunities and jobs. The only eligible entities are public bodies, private nonprofit corporations, rural development authorities, and federally recognized tribes. Individual businesses are not eligible.
Funds must be used to facilitate the development of small and emerging private business enterprises in rural areas. Costs may include but are not limited to business planning, feasibility analysis and technical assistance, and acquisition and development of land and associated equipment. Western Nevada Development District received a Rural Business Enterprise Grant to set up a revolving loan fund which is up and running and will help new rural businesses in western Nevada get started.
In this competitive program, priority is given to applicants from rural communities that are economically distressed, with a population of 50,000 or less. Nevada currently has grant funding of $50,000 available. Grant awards can range in size from $2,500- $100,000; however due to limited funding lesser application amounts are recommended. The deadline to apply for grants is January 10, 2014.
For more information, in southern Nevada contact Business and Cooperative Programs Specialist David Foster at (702) 262-9047 Ext. 103. In northern Nevada contact Business and Cooperative Programs Specialist Michelle Kelly at (775) 887-1222, Ext. 118.
USDA Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack noted that today's funding announcement is another reminder of the importance of USDA programs for rural America. A comprehensive new Food, Farm and Jobs Bill would further expand the rural economy. He said that's just one reason why Congress must get a comprehensive Food, Farm and Jobs Bill done as soon as possible.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values.
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