Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA is investing nearly $200,000 to support Clayton Local Development Corporation and the Development Authority of the North Country.
"USDA is working to expand economic opportunities and bring well-paying jobs to rural communities," Vilsack said. "Strategic investments in rural businesses will help grow local economies and revitalize small towns and communities."
The investments announced today, through USDA's Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) program, promote the development of small and emerging businesses in rural New York. RBEGs may also be used to help fund distance learning networks and employment-related adult education programs. Eligible applicants include local public entities, private non-profit corporations and federally recognized Indian Tribes.
The Development Authority of the North Country is selected to receive a $99,750 grant to purchase innovative robotic technology to produce organic vegetables in an extended growing season environment. Through collaboration, the state authority develops programs to improve economic development opportunities in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties.
The RBEG program has been successful in growing companies that are bringing products to market and creating high-wage jobs. Clayton Local Development Corporation has been awarded an $85,000 grant to purchase equipment to be leased to a local craft brewery that uses New York-grown ingredients.
Since the beginning of the Obama Administration, the RBEG program has helped create or save more than 90,000 rural jobs, provided more than $54 million in economic development assistance, improved manufacturing capability, expanded health care and educational facilities, and has either expanded or helped establish more than 3,200 economic development projects.
Funding for the recipients announced today is contingent upon their meeting the terms of the grant agreement.
President Obama's historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his 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.