WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it is extending the application deadline to Nov. 7, 2023, for the High Energy Cost Grants program. The original deadline was Oct. 31. In September 2023, USDA announced it was seeking applications from energy providers to lower costs for people in rural areas. The grants will help providers offset costs for … [Read more...]
Episode 49: Rural Business Conference Helping Small Business Owners Connect
Amidst the busy life of running a rural business, it’s often hard to find opportunities to network and connect with useful resources. Throughout the country, organizations are trying to help by putting on events that bring rural business professionals together through regional conferences. The Northwest Arkansas Rural Business Development Conference is a perfect … [Read more...]
USDA looks to expand domestic fertilizer production, double cropping
Kankakee, Ill. – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack recently highlighted progress made in partnering with farmers and American businesses to increase innovative domestic fertilizer production and in making it easier for U.S. farmers to grow food through the practice of double cropping. USDA also announced $52.6 million in awards under the Fertilizer … [Read more...]
Senators introduce Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Tina Smith (D-MN) recently introduced the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Act of 2023. The legislation extends and enhances the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP). Established in the 2008 farm bill, RMAP assists rural entrepreneurs who are unable to access credit from traditional lenders by providing loans … [Read more...]
Grants available to help improve sewer and water systems in rural areas
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development announced it is accepting grant applications to improve solid waste management, which will help reduce water pollution for people in rural areas. USDA is accepting applications under the Solid Waste Management Grants program. These grants are available to organizations that offer technical assistance or … [Read more...]