Monday, May 20 2013 1:55PM

A USDA grant may help rural businesses create jobs and expand their services.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting grant applications from organizations that can provide technical assistance to rural businesses in the hopes that the training will open up employment opportunities and strengthen economic community development.

The agency will provide up to $2.6 million through the Rural Development's Rural Business Opportunity Grant program. Applicants may receive up to a maximum of $100,000 if they qualify. The funds may be used for feasibility studies, strategic planning, leadership training and business development. Several types of organizations may qualify for the funding, including public groups, nonprofit organizations, universities, Native American entities and rural cooperatives.

"These grants will help businesses get access to planning, mentoring and other services that can help ensure their success," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "This assistance will provide development and managerial services that often are not readily available to businesses in rural areas, part of the Obama Administration's effort to accelerate the resurgence of manufacturing and create jobs across the country."

Rural unemployment has been historically lower than the urban and national rate, but recently surpassed these two rates when it climbed to 8.9 percent, the Daily Yonder recently reported. As rural communities continue to face declining job opportunities, federal grants may help reverse the tide of rising jobless rates. 

For more information, check out this resource: The U.S. Department of Agriculture