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IL USDA Awards Loan to Support Local Rural Economic Development

Name
Kate O'Hara
City
Toledo
Release Date

USDA Rural Development Director for Illinois, Colleen Callahan, presented Norris Electric with a symbolic check for $102,845 to promote rural economic development in Cumberland County.  The funds will be loaned at zero percent interest to business start-up Ag Underground. 

Ag Underground is owned by Justin Holsapple, who grew up on a farm in Cumberland County and returned after college with a goal of running his own business. Holsapple has recently taken on a dealership with Channel Seed, branched out into the pesticide and nutritional markets and started Ag Underground as a way to market these products.

Many rural communities recognize the value of “growing their own” businesses as an alternative to attracting outside companies.  Holsapple’s Ag Underground, like many businesses looking to start-up or expand, needed financing.  Enter Norris Electric Cooperative and the USDA Rural Economic Development Loan Program (REDL).

“Today we have the privilege of recognizing two valuable, local businesses whose presence helps strengthen our rural communities,” said Callahan.  “We also have an opportunity to highlight the additional strength that is generated for the future when a cooperative like Norris Electric and an entrepreneurs like Justin Holsapple work together.

USDA's Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program provides zero-interest loans and grants to utilities that in turn, lend funds to local businesses for projects to create and retain employment in rural areas. These revolving loan funds broaden the REDLG program's reach and create a multiplier effect for its impact.

Since 2009, USDA has invested more than $330 million in loans and grants through the REDLG program. 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.