USDA Seeks Applications for Community Development Grants

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is inviting applications for grants to support economic development in rural communities.
   “This is a great opportunity for Community Development groups in Montana to expand and improve their reach and service to rural areas,” said Janelle Gustafson, Acting State Director for USDA Rural Development in Montana. “Our Community Development partners are critical in helping us leverage federal resources to best assist the communities we serve here in Montana, and this funding opportunity is a great way to support that mission.”
    USDA is making grants available under the Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) program to strengthen the rural economy. Qualified intermediary organizations receiving RCDI grants will provide technical assistance and training to help nonprofit organizations and communities develop their capacity to undertake housing, community facilities or economic development projects. Applicants must have capacity-building experience for these types of projects and must provide matching funds at least equal to the RCDI grant. Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000.
   Eligible recipients are nonprofit organizations, low-income rural communities or federally recognized tribes. RCDI grants are not provided directly to businesses or individuals.
   Examples of eligible projects include homeownership education, minority business entrepreneurship, strategic community planning or assistance to access alternative funding sources.  A grant awarded to Native American Development Corporation in 2014 shows how the RCDI program is helping rural communities. The organization used a $152,492 grant to help the tribes increase their capacity and ability to conduct sustainable community and economic development.
   For more information on how to apply, see page 24281 of the May 26 Federal Register. The deadline to submit paper applications is July 25, 2017. Montana applicants should contact Lyle Coney in the Kalispell office of USDA Rural Development to submit their application packet, or ask any questions about the program. Coney may be reached at (406) 756-2005.
   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; homeownership; community services such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.