Mercer County Businesses to Benefit from Investment
COLUMBUS, Ohio - July 27, 2021 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Ohio Rural Development Acting State Director Beth Huhn announced that USDA is investing $14 million in rural economic development projects in 10 states.
“Under the leadership of Secretary Vilsack, USDA is working strategically to invest in infrastructure and economic development in rural communities across Ohio,” Huhn said. “Rural Development is happy to partner with Midwest Electric Inc again to assist in maintaining and upgrading infrastructure that meets the demands of new and expanding businesses.”
Midwest Electric Inc (MEI) is receiving a $300,000 grant to expand their revolving loan fund to help Mercer Community Land Development LLC. Mercer will improve roads and the sanitary, stormwater and sewer systems at the Marion Township Industrial Park. Mercer will also add 24 lots at the park. This funding is estimated to assist 22 rural, small businesses, create 53 jobs and save 84 jobs. Leveraged funds in the amount of $1.3 million will be provided by Mercer County to further support this project. MEI previously received $737,000 through this program in 2005, 2013 and 2018 to assist with other infrastructure projects in St. Henry and Mercer County.
USDA is providing the funding through the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program. Through this program, USDA provides zero-interest loans and grants to utilities. The utilities then lend funds to local businesses for projects that create and retain employment in rural areas. Eligible applicants are USDA’s Electric Program and Telecom Program borrowers.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas.
Information on programs available through USDA Rural Development is available by visiting www.rd.usda.gov/oh or calling 614-255-2400. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
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