The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is accepting applications for grants to help socially disadvantaged agricultural producers and rural business owners. This funding is being provided through USDA's Socially Disadvantaged Groups Grant (SDGG) Program.
Up to $3 million will be awarded nationwide to help small businesses retain and create jobs in rural areas. The maximum amount an applicant may receive is $175,000. The grants are not provided directly to businesses or individuals. Instead, qualified organizations receiving these grants will provide technical assistance and training to socially disadvantaged rural businesses or agricultural producers. This technical assistance may include leadership training and support developing feasibility studies, business plans, and strategic plans.
Cooperatives, groups of cooperatives, and cooperative development centers that serve socially disadvantaged groups are eligible to apply. USDA defines a socially disadvantaged group as one whose members have been subjected to racial, ethnic, or gender prejudice because of their identity without regard to their individual qualities. Applicants can be based in any area, but the organizations they serve must be in an eligible rural area.
Applications must be received by August 1, 2017. In South Dakota, applications should be submitted to the USDA Rural Development State Office:
USDA Rural Development
ATTN: Dana Kleinsasser
200 4th Street SW Federal Bldg. Rm. 210
Huron, SD 57350
For additional information and details on how to apply, see page 26426 of the June 7, 2017, Federal Register. Questions related to USDA Business Programs in South Dakota may be directed to Dana Kleinsasser, Business and Cooperative Programs Director, 605-352-1157.