closed
Complete applications may be submitted in paper or electronic format and must be received by 4:30 p.m. local time on February 28, 2024, in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) State Office for the State where the project is located.
It's Rural Business Development Grant Season!
This is one of our most popular grant opportunities. Applications are processed through and due to the Area Office by Feb. 28, 2023. See the Contact tab for a directory of offices by county.
Grants to Provide Technical Assistance for Rural Transportation (RT) Systems
USDA is inviting applications for grants to provide Technical Assistance for passenger Rural
Transportation (RT) Systems under the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program and the
terms for such funding. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-01-02/pdf/2023-28840.pdf
Application Open Date: January 2, 2024
Close Date: April 1, 2024
Notice:
The Federal Register for the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) Regulation: Tribes and Tribal Business References to Provide Equitable Access published on December 14, 2023.
What does this program do?
The purpose of the program is to promote economic development and job creation projects through the awarding of grant funds to eligible entities. Applications will compete in two separate categories, business opportunity grants and business enterprise grants, for use in funding various business and
community projects that serve rural areas.
community projects that serve rural areas.
Who may apply for this program?
Grants may be made to a Public Body/Government Entity, an Indian Tribe, or a Nonprofit entity primarily serving rural areas.
What is an eligible area?
Rural Business Development Grant money must be used for projects that benefit rural areas or towns outside the urbanized periphery of any city with a population of 50,000 or more. Check eligible areas.
What kind of funding is available?
There is no maximum grant amount; however, smaller requests are given higher priority. There is no cost sharing requirement. There are two types of RBDG projects, Opportunity grants and Enterprise grants. Opportunity type grants are limited to up to 10 percent of the total Rural Business Development Grant annual funding. Enterprise type grants must be used on projects to benefit small and emerging businesses in rural areas as specified in the grant application.
How may Enterprise type funds be used?
- Training and technical assistance, such as project planning, business counseling and training, market research, feasibility studies, professional or/technical reports, or producer service improvements.
- Acquisition or development of land, easements, or rights of way; construction, conversion, renovation of buildings; plants, machinery, equipment, access for streets and roads; parking areas and utilities.
- Pollution control and abatement.
- The capitalization of revolving loan funds, including funds that will make loans for start-ups and working capital.
- Rural distance learning for job training and advancement for adult students.
- Rural transportation improvement.
- Community economic development.
- Technology-based economic development.
- Feasibility studies and business plans.
- Leadership and entrepreneur training.
- Rural business incubators.
- Long-term business strategic planning.
How may Opportunity type funds be used?
- Community economic development.
- Technology-based economic development.
- Feasibility studies and business plans.
- Leadership and entrepreneur training.
- Rural business incubators.
- Long-term business strategic planning.
How are applications evaluated?
All applications are evaluated based on:
- Evidence showing job creation at local businesses.
- Percent of non-federal funding committed to the project.
- Economic need in the area to be served.
- Consistency with local economic development priorities.
- Experience of the grantee with similar efforts.
Other factors are described in the Notice of Solicitation of Applications (NOSA).
How do we get started?
- Applications are accepted through USDA Rural Development’s local or state offices. Applicants are advised to view program information specific to your local or state office to learn about local application timelines, concept paper requirements, etc.
- Grant awardees will need to complete required paperwork and comply with the terms and conditions of the award. Contact your local or state office for details.
Who can answer questions?
- Contact your local office.
What law governs this program?
Citations and other information may be subject to change, please always consult the program instructions listed in this section.
Citations and other information may be subject to change, please always consult the program instructions listed in this section.
This program is authorized by the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (ConAct). Basic Program – 7 CFR Part 4280, Subpart E.
Why does USDA Rural Development do this?
This program provides grant money to assist with economic development planning and/or the financing or expansion of rural businesses.
APPLY BY FEBRUARY 28, 2023
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 6 | Appling | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Atkinson | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Bacon | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Baker RPN | Jyles Zellner (470) 388-2459 Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 4 | Baldwin | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 2 | Banks | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Barrow | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Bartow | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 5 | Ben Hill RPN | Amy Wilkie (478) 412-1767 Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 5 | Berrien | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 3 | Bibb | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 3 | Bleckley | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Brantley | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Brooks | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 6 | Bryan | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Bulloch | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Burke | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Butts | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Calhoun RPN | Jyles Zellner (470 388-2459 Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 6 | Camden | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Candler | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Carroll | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 1 | Catoosa | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 6 | Charlton | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Chatham | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Chattahocee | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Chattooga | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 1 | Cherokee | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 2 | Clarke | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Clay | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Clayton | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 6 | Clinch | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Cobb | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 6 | Coffee | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Colquitt | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 4 | Columbia | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Cook | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 1 | Coweta | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 3 | Crawford | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Crisp | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 1 | Dade | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 2 | Dawson | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 5 | Decatur RPN | Jyles Zellner (470 388-2459 Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 2 | Dekalb | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 6 | Dodge | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Dooly | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 5 | Dougherty RPN | Nick Johnson Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 1 | Douglas | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 5 | Early RPN | Alaina Sykes (478) 721-3150 |
| 5 | Echols | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 6 | Effingham | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | Elbert | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 4 | Emanuel RPN | Amy Wilkie (478) 412-1767 Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 6 | Evans | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Fannin | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 1 | Fayette | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 1 | Floyd | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 2 | Forsyth | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Franklin | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Fulton | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 1 | Gilmer | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 4 | Glascock | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Glynn | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Gordon | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 5 | Grady RPN | Nick Johnson Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 2 | Greene | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Gwinnett | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Habersham | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Hall | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 4 | Hancock | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 1 | Haralson | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 1 | Harris | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 2 | Hart | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Heard | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 3 | Henry | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 3 | Houston | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Irwin | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 2 | Jackson | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Jasper | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Jeff Davis | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 4 | Jefferson | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Jenkins | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Johnson | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Jones | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 3 | Lamar | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Lanier | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 4 | Laurens | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Lee RPN | Jyles Zellner (470 388-2459 Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 |
| 6 | Liberty | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 4 | Lincoln | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Long | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 5 | Lowndes | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 2 | Lumpkin | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Macon | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Madison | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Marion | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 4 | McDuffie | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | McIntosh | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Meriwether | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 5 | Miller RPN | Alaina Sykes (478) 721-3150 Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 5 | Mitchell RPN | Nick Johnson Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 3 | Monroe | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Montgomery | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | Morgan | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Murray | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 3 | Muscogee | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Newton | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Oconee | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Oglethorpe | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Paulding | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 3 | Peach | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Pickens | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 6 | Pierce | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Pike | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Polk | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 3 | Pulaski | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 4 | Putnam | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Quitman | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Rabun | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Randolph | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 4 | Richmond | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 2 | Rockdale | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Schley | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 4 | Screven | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Seminole RPN | Alaina Sykes (478) 721-3150 Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 3 | Spalding | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Stephens | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Stewart | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 3 | Sumter | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Talbot | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 4 | Taliaferro | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Tattnall | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Taylor | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Telfair | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 3 | Terrell RPN | Alaina Sykes (478) 721-3150 Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 |
| 5 | Thomas | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 5 | Tift | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 6 | Toombs | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | Towns | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Troup | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 4 | Treutlen | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Turner | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 3 | Twiggs | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Union | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Upson | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Walker | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 2 | Walton | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 6 | Ware | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 4 | Warren | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Washington | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Wayne | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Webster | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozer (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Wheeler | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | White | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Jennifer Daugherty (770) 267-1413 ext. 113 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 1 | Whitfield | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 5 | Wilcox | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Linda Westberry (229) 355-3285 Tameshia Smith (229) 520-3484 |
| 4 | Wilkes | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Wilkinson | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Worth RPN | Nick Johnson Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
NOTE: If state specific forms are not shown above, please refer to the application materials listed below to start the process of applying. Please ensure that your state is selected in the dropdown menu above to find the State Office contact information for this program and speak to a Business Programs Specialist before attempting to fill out any forms or applications. This will save you valuable time in the process.
Preliminary Actions Required
To complete an application for this program, you must be pre-registered with the System for Award Management (SAM). Neither of these applications cost money, but they can take time so be sure to get this taken care of right away. If you are already registered with these systems, you do not need to do it again.
Special Alert for SAM Registrants
Last year, we alerted our vendor community to third party companies offering to help you update information contained within the System for Award Management (www.SAM.gov) website, for a fee. Your SAM registration contains sensitive business information, including your banking information and other sensitive information, so your login and password should not be shared with anyone outside your company. As a reminder, the use of the System for Award Management website is free to use and update, and the Commodity Procurement Staff does not see a reason to pay anyone to provide that service.
Secondly, we have just become aware of a couple of scam emails that offer to “help companies start the renewal process online” or suggest that “Your Federal Profile is Almost Complete. Immediate Action Required!” In both cases, your free access to SAM.gov will resolve any questions you may have regarding your registration in SAM.gov. As you know SAM.gov requires an annual recertification and sends out email reminders prior to the expiration, and again, updates should be handled by company employees. Furthermore, if your registration is not complete, you may login to SAM.gov to make that determination for yourself.
Please remember that SAM.gov is not affiliated with the USDA and is a government-wide website not maintained by our Agency. If you have any questions regarding access or how to use SAM, please contact their help desk at 866-606-8220, option #1.
There are no additional requirements at the national level. If there are additional state-specific requirements, they will be listed above.
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 6 | Appling | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Atkinson | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Bacon | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Baker RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 4 | Baldwin | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 2 | Banks | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Barrow | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Bartow | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 5 | Ben Hill RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 5 | Berrien | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 3 | Bibb | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 3 | Bleckley |
Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Brantley | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Brooks | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 6 | Bryan | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Bulloch | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 4 | Burke |
Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Butts | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Calhoun RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 6 | Camden | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Candler | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Carroll | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 1 | Catoosa | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 6 | Charlton | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 6 | Chatham | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Chattahochee | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 |
| 1 | Chattooga | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 1 | Cherokee | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 2 | Clarke | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Clay | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Clayton | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 6 | Clinch | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Cobb | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 6 | Coffee | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Colquitt | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 4 | Columbia | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Cook | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 1 | Coweta | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 3 | Crawford | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 |
| 5 | Crisp | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 1 | Dade | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 2 | Dawson | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 5 | Decatur RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 2 | Dekalb | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 6 | Dodge | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 5 | Dooly | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 5 | Dougherty RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 1 | Douglas | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 5 | Early RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 5 | Echols | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 6 | Effingham | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | Elbert | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 4 | Emanuel RPN |
Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Evans | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Fannin | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 1 | Fayette | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 1 | Floyd | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 2 | Forsyth | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Franklin | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Fulton | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 1 | Gilmer | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 4 | Glascock | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Glynn | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Gordon | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 5 | Grady RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 2 | Greene | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Gwinnett | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Habersham | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Hall | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 4 | Hancock | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 1 | Haralson | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 1 | Harris | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 2 | Hart | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Heard | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 3 | Henry | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 |
| 3 | Houston |
Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Irwin | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 2 | Jackson | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Jasper | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Jeff Davis | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 4 | Jefferson | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Jenkins | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Johnson | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Jones | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470_ 291-3075 |
| 3 | Lamar | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Lanier | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 4 | Laurens | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Lee RPN |
Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Liberty | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 4 | Lincoln | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Long | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 5 | Lowndes | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 2 | Lumpkin | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Macon | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Madison | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Marion | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 4 | McDuffie | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | McIntosh | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 1 | Meriwether | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 |
| 5 | Miller RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 5 | Mitchell RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 3 | Monroe | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470)291-3075 |
| 6 | Montgomery | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | Morgan | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Murray | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 3 | Muscogee | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Newton | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Oconee | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 2 | Oglethorpe | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Paulding | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 3 | Peach | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Pickens | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 6 | Pierce | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Pike | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Polk | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 3 | Pulaski | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 |
| 4 | Putnam | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 3 | Quitman | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Rabun | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Randolph | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 4 | Richmond | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 2 | Rockdale | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Schley | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 4 | Screven | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Seminole RPN |
Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 3 | Spalding | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Stephens | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Stewart | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 3 | Sumter | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 1 | Talbot | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 4 | Taliaferro | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Tattnall | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Taylor | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Telfair | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 3 | Terrell RPN | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 5 | Thomas RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 5 | Tift | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 6 | Toombs | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | Towns | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 1 | Troup | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 4 | Treutlen | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Turner | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 3 | Twiggs | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 2 | Union | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 3 | Upson | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 |
| 1 | Walker | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 2 | Walton | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| 6 | Ware | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 4 | Warren | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Washington | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 6 | Wayne | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 3 | Webster | Marcella Little (478) 721-3151 Tizra Dozier (470) 291-3075 |
| 6 | Wheeler | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 Cindy McQuaig (912) 871-2600 ext. 120 |
| 2 | White | Kathleen Henderson (770) 267-1413 ext. 107 Wes Sparks (770) 267-1413 ext. 116 |
| Georgia RD Area Office | Georgia County | Rural Business Development Grant Point of Contact |
| 1 | Whitfield | Tamika Lucas (770) 253-2555 ext. 106 Ulissa White (678) 719-3504 |
| 5 | Wilcox | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
| 4 | Wilkes | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 4 | Wilkinson | Kenneth Smith (706) 843-4152 Karen Jameson (478) 247-1155 |
| 5 | Worth RPN | Debra Bell-Dison (229) 520-3487 |
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