U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner today presented a $25,000 grant to the Alliance for Economic Success to help Manistee County attract and expand manufacturing businesses.
“USDA Rural Development facilitates economic growth by helping local communities find their strengths and develop unique solutions,” said Turner. “By tailoring our assistance to individual needs, we are empowering rural Michigan communities.”
The money was provided through the Rural Business Development Grant program and the Alliance for Economic Success is providing $25,000 in matching funds.
The project is expected to take 12 months and will identify the county’s assets such as resources, infrastructure and workforce skills, define market opportunities and develop a business case for supporting manufacturing expansions.
USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2009. USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has a portfolio of programs designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Under the Obama Administration, USDA Rural Development has invested more than $6.5 billion in Michigan projects.