SALT LAKE CITY, Nov.,1, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) State Director Michele Weaver today announced that USDA is awarding a grant for $166,440 to Yee Ha’ólníi Doo, a Navajo Nation nonprofit, to establish two business development centers.
"Due to their remote location in Utah, indigenous Tribes are often overlooked. Consequently, they go without the basic services many people take for granted. " Weaver said. "I am proud that we can support Tribal needs with USDA Rural Development's programs and have a lasting impact."
Yee Ha’ólníi Doo will use grant funds to establish two business development centers: one in Monument Valley for Tribes in southern San Juan County, and the second in White Mesa, to serve the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe in the central part of the county. These centers will provide education, mentorship, and technical assistance to support entrepreneurs and startups.
This investment is made through USDA’s Rural Business Development Grant Program, which provides funding to small and emerging businesses in rural areas. Funds may be used to establish business support centers or to finance job training and leadership development in rural areas. They may also be used to repair or modernize buildings; finance feasibility studies or business plans; or purchase equipment to lease to small or emerging businesses.
Applications for the latest round of funding are now being accepted. Applications must be submitted to the nearest USDA Rural Development state office where the project is located by 4:30 p.m. ET on Feb. 28, 2024. For more information on how to apply in Utah, contact Karla Eberling.
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/ut.