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Micro-Enterprise Program Takes Root with Help from USDA

Name
Deborah Callahan
City
ATHENS
Release Date

U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development agency today announced a $38,396 grant award to Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living, Inc.  Funds will be used to provide technical assistance and develop additional market opportunities for isolated individuals with disabilities.  Funding comes from the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program, which promotes the development of small and emerging businesses in rural areas.

    Through the Good Roots workforce development micro-enterprise program, Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living, Inc. trains and supports isolated individuals in the production of Certified Naturally Grown seedlings.  Good Roots trainees use organic growing methods; learn the art and science of starting seedlings; develop their own small business; and contribute to their local communities through production and sales of high quality vegetable, herb and flower seedlings.

   Incubated in 2013, the program is committed to providing the tools and resources required for individuals with disabilities to start and grow small businesses throughout Northeast Georgia.  After seeds are sown in cell packs, sowers germinate the seeds under home grow light systems. Seedlings are then grown to garden-ready size at the Multiple Choices Good Roots Grow Room. The Certified Naturally Grown seedlings are sold on-site, at local farmers markets and other venues, and on the Athens Locally Grown website.  Seedlings are also sown and grown for farmers and local gardeners through custom orders.

   This grant announced today will assist Multiple Choices to develop additional strategies for workforce development, expand market opportunities; and develop a seedling monitoring system that will improve quality controls and efficiency. Funding is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the grant agreement.

   President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s 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.