WASHINGTON – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that the Department is accepting applications for funding to help create jobs and promote economic growth in rural communities.
USDA is making loans and grants available under the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) programs for fiscal year (FY) 2024. Through these programs, USDA provides zero-interest loans to local utilities which they, in turn, pass through to local businesses for projects that will create and retain employment in rural areas. Through the REDLG programs, USDA also provides grants to local utility organizations, which use the funding to establish revolving loan funds to finance community facilities.
Specifically, applicants may use funds to support business startup, business expansion and business incubators; technical assistance and feasibility studies; essential community facilities; and advanced telecommunications services and computer networks for medical, educational and job training opportunities.
For more information, read full Stakeholder Announcement.