Font ResizeBRATTLEBORO -- The USDA is accepting applications for grants to help promote sustainable economic development and job creation in rural communities.
USDA is offering Rural Cooperative Development Grants (RCDG) to non-profit corporations and institutions of higher education. The grants also may be used to conduct feasibility studies, create and implement business plans, and help businesses develop new markets for their products and services.
One-year grants up to $175,000 are available. In most cases, grants may be used to pay for up to 75 percent of the cost of establishing and operating rural cooperative development centers. Recipients are required to match 25 percent of the award amount. The grant period should begin no earlier than Oct. 1 and no later than Jan. 1, 2013.
USDA may award up to $5.8 million in grants. The deadline for RCDG applications is Aug. 6. For more information, see the June 7, Federal Register or contact the USDA Rural Development state office.
In addition, USDA is offering almost $2.37 million in grants through USDA Rural Development’s Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG). The program promotes sustainable economic development in rural communities and regions with exceptional needs.
Applications for Rural Business Opportunity Grants are due August 6. Application instructions may be obtained from the June 7 Federal Register, or by contacting the Vermont/New Hampshire USDA Rural Development
