Promoting effective community economic development in rural areas requires a locally-led approach tailored to fit a community’s needs, resources, environment and people. Today, a team from USDA Ohio Rural Development began a new dialogue with local elected officials and stakeholders here. The goal? To identify and implement the community’s vision for a robust economic future.
“Community Economic Development is one of USDA’s top priorities, and this region – Athens County and Southeast Ohio – offers a unique blend of businesses, universities and community leaders who can help us succeed,” said Ohio Rural Development State Director Tony Logan. “This morning, we’re here to brief the county commissioners on the many tools we have available to help this regional economy flourish.”
Through its Rural Development agency, USDA acts as a federal advocate for a growing, prosperous rural America, offering not just financial assistance, but also technical expertise and advice to help communities connect to essential resources and plan effectively.
“Our goal is to increase communication with the foundations and development districts that already do the heavy lifting in the area to garner additional local participation and collaboration for the betterment of the region,” said Community Program Director David Douglas. “With today’s renewed emphasis, we envision an even stronger partnership with stakeholders.”
Rural Development offers a variety of financial programs designed to help build and strengthen rural assets and infrastructure. These include loan, loan guarantee and grant programs that support community facilities, communications, utilities, housing, energy, workforce development and business incubation and expansion projects.
For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov or call 614-255-2394.