USDA Rural Development State Director Janie Dunning today announced a Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) of $25,104 to the Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Commission (RPC). The funds will be used to assist the RPC in developing a business conference to provide prospective and existing business owners the opportunity to receive insight on start-ups, expansion and business development.
“Businesses are the foundation to every community. They are the key to economic growth and development, especially in rural areas,” said Dunning. “The Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Commission is doing a great job of recognizing what needs to be done to advance and improve the region. This business conference will be a valuable tool to get business owners, entrepreneurs and prospective individuals in the door to learn more about business development.”
Established in 1968, the Kaysinger Basin RPC serves the counties of Bates, Benton, Cedar, Henry, Hickory, St Clair and Vernon. The 2016 Kaysinger Business Conference, scheduled for May 12, 2016, will provide two all-inclusive sessions in addition to six breakout sessions facilitated by regional experts.
The Rural Business Development Grant program is designed to support targeted technical assistance, training and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small emerging private businesses in rural areas. Further information on rural programs is available by visiting the USDA Missouri Rural Development website at http://www.rd.usda.gov/mo. In addition, interested parties may contact the Clinton Area Office at (660) 885-5567, Ext. 4.
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.
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has an active portfolio of more than $212 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.