USDA Rural Development State Director Richard A. Machek today announced that the Agency will host two northwest Florida regional informational workshops during the month of November. The presentations, as part of the Agency's USDA/Northwest Florida Regional Energy Initiative, will focus on USDA Rural Development business and energy programs.
As the lead federal Agency responsible for supporting community and economic development in rural areas, USDA Rural Development recognizes the significant opportunities present in northwest Florida, and has established the USDA/Northwest Florida Regional Energy Initiative. The initiative is designed to expand access to energy efficiency funding for small businesses and agricultural producers in the Florida panhandle region. “This initiative provides an excellent opportunity for small businesses and agricultural producers to upgrade and purchase energy efficient and renewable energy equipment with USDA Rural Development providing a 25 percent grant of the total project costs,” said State Director Machek. “This funding will help farmers, ranchers and rural small business owners incorporate renewable energy and energy efficiency technology into their operations, create jobs and help America become more energy independent.”
The informational workshops will be held at the following locations:
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Jay, Florida / November 18, 2014 |
Marianna, Florida / November 19, 2014 |
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12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
9:00 a.m. to 12 p.m. |
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Jay Community Center |
Jackson County Agriculture Center |
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5259 Boooker Lane |
3631 Highway 90 |
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Jay, FL 32565 |
Marianna, FL 32446 |
Additional information about Rural Development programs and the USDA/Northwest Florida Regional Energy Initiative can be obtained by contacting the Agency’s Marianna office at 850-526-2610, extension 5. Individuals may also call the Rural Development State Office at 352-338-3412 or visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/fl.
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.