USDA Rural Development today is seeking applications for grants to support rural businesses and help create jobs through the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program.
Congress established the RBDG program under the 2014 Farm Bill by combining USDA’s Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) and Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG) programs. The new program, like its predecessors, is designed to assist the startup or expansion of small and emerging private businesses and/or non-profits in rural communities. Eligible applicants include public bodies, government entities, Indian tribes and non-profit organizations.
RBDG grants can be used to acquire or develop land, buildings, plants and equipment; build or improve access roads, parking areas, utility extensions, and water and waste disposal facilities; provide technical assistance; establish revolving loan funds; and to support rural distance learning programs that provide educational or job training.
Applications in North Dakota should be submitted to the state office by 4:30 p.m. on the dates listed:
• Native American set-aside applications are due on May 8, 2015;
• REAP Zone set-aside applications are due on May 29, 2015;
• and all other non-set-aside applications are due on June 12, 2015.
For additional information on how to apply, contact our office at (701) 530-2037 or see Page 15665 of the March 25 Federal Register.