Farmers and tradesmen in Wilcox County will soon have a central place to sell their goods. USDA Rural Development State Director Quinton Robinson today announced a $35,001 USDA grant award to help the City of Abbeville build an open air farmers market. Funding comes from the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program, which promotes the development of small and emerging businesses in rural areas.
“The local food movement is becoming an established part of the overall marketplace. Local foods can provide increased economic health and strength to participating communities. The construction of the market will centralize producer marketing efforts and boost sales,” said Robinson.
The Abbeville Open Market will consist of an 80ft x 80ft open air, tin roofed shelter with partitioned 10ft x 10ft vendor booth spaces, water faucets, lighting and electrical outlets, accessible restrooms and ample parking. Construction is estimated to be complete by August 2016. USDA RBDG funding is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the grant agreement.
The Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) is a competitive grant designed to support targeted technical assistance, training and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small and emerging private businesses in rural areas that have fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenues. A list of Georgia FY2015 RBDG awardees is posted online at http://www.rd.usda.gov/files/ga_fy15RBDGlist.pdf . For program information, contact Business and Cooperatives Programs Specialist Toni Grimes at (706) 552-2561.
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.