SEARCH - Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households in Montana

What does this program do?

This program provides funding to financially-distressed rural communities to pay for predevelopment feasibility studies, pre-design assistance and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects.

Who may apply?

• Most state and local governmental entities
• Nonprofits
• Federally recognized tribes

What is an eligible area?

Areas to be served must be rural and financially distressed:

• Rural areas with a population of 2,500 or less
• Have a median household income below the poverty line or less than 80 percent of the statewide non-metropolitan median household income based on latest Census data

How may the funds be used?

Grant funds can be used to pay for eligible predevelopment planning costs and activities, including:

• Feasibility studies to support applications for funding water or waste disposal projects
• Preliminary design and engineering analysis
• Technical assistance and environmental impact analysis to develop applications for financial assistance

Are there additional requirements?

Yes. Predevelopment planning costs must be related to a proposed project that builds, enlarges, extends, or improves rural water, wastewater, solid waste, or storm water disposal facilities.

How do we get started?

• Applications for this program are accepted year round through your local RD office
• Program resources such as guidance, forms, certifications, and so on, are available at RD Apply

What governs this program?

• Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 1774 - 7 CFR 1774
• Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act