The Oregon State Director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, Vicki Walker, today announced that USDA is seeking applications for grants to support rural businesses and help create jobs.
Approximately $300,000 is expected to be made available in Oregon under the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) Program. The grants will be awarded competitively. Eligible applicants include public bodies, government entities, Indian tribes, and nonprofit organizations. This year’s announcement also includes a Native American set aside that is funded through a national competition.
The Rural Business Development Grant Program supports targeted technical assistance, training, and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small and emerging private, rural businesses that have fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenue. For additional information, see the RBDG website.
If you are planning to submit an application in Oregon, we encourage you to contact a local Business & Cooperative Program Specialist. You may also contact our State Office for more details about the application requirements and process:
Lisa Siesennop
Business & Cooperative Programs Director
USDA Rural Development
1220 SW 3rd Avenue, Suite 1801
Portland, OR 97204
(503) 414-3367
Lisa.Siesennop@or.usda.gov
Complete applications must be received by the USDA Rural Development Oregon State Office no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, May 2, 2016.