Thursday, Jul 7 2011 3:26PM
Rural microenterprises will receive business training and technical assistance through the RMAP.
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced 43 community-based organizations and six rural microenterprises will receive grants to help with economic development and job creation, and to strengthen local communities.
Funding will be provided to the organizations and businesses through the
Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) program and the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP).
The RCDI award is made to intermediary organizations, which then provide technical assistance and training to Native American and rural communities to build their capacity and ability to undertake projects related to housing, community facilities, and community and economic development.
The RMAP assists microenterprises and microentrepreneurs with business-based training and rural microborrowers with technical assistance.
"A strong rural America and a strong agricultural industry go hand in hand. These investments will bring increased economic opportunity to rural residents and communities," said Vilsack. "And they will help organizations expand job opportunities across the nation, part of the Obama Administration's effort to win the future."
Rural Community Assistance Corporation received a $175,105 RCDI award to help five recipients strengthen planning and capacity to implement housing, utility and renewable energy projects.