The Trump Administration today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $250,000 in Dakota Resources to support rural economic development projects.
“Dakota Resources is a valued partner to USDA. This project will increase economic development in South Dakota rural communities by providing funding and technical assistance to grow small businesses and assist development projects,” said Julie Gross, USDA Rural Development South Dakota State Director. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA continues to be a strong partner with rural communities, because we know that when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
Dakota Resources is leveraging the federal funding with an applicant contribution of $250,000 to implement new and expand capacity building opportunities through housing & community and economic development to 16 recipients in South Dakota and one recipient in North Dakota. The 17 ultimate recipients are local economic development groups that work in small communities in South Dakota and North Dakota that have a population average of 1,907. Dakota Resources is located in Renner.
Today’s award is being provided through the Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) program. RCDI provides funding to help non-profit housing and community development organizations support housing, community facilities, and community and economic development projects in rural areas. RCDI grants are not provided directly to businesses or individuals. Instead, awards are provided to public or non-profit intermediaries that are locally based and skilled in business development and job creation. Recipients must obtain matching funds, which doubles the impact of the grants. Funding is contingent upon the grantee meeting the terms of the grant agreement.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/sd or call (605) 352-1100.
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