USDA
USDA Rural Development Nevada is reminding rural nonprofits, public bodies and Tribes that the deadline to apply for USDA’s new Rural Business Development Grant is May 15.
Grant money can be used to acquire or develop land, buildings, plants and equipment; build or improve access roads, parking areas, utility extensions and water and waste disposal facilities; provide technical assistance, establish revolving loan funds and to support rural distance learning programs that provide educational or job training.
Program information is available online at www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-business-development-grants.
In 2014, the Wells Band received a $48,940 grant to purchase equipment and provide training to tribal members to operate a three-unit business development retail center, which serves as an “incubator” for tribal entrepreneurs wishing to start their own businesses.
The Wells Band Business Development Center will house the Wells Band Smoke Shop, Serenity Hair and Nail Salon, and Scoops Ice Cream and Coffee Parlor. The Wells Band held a soft opening in February 2015 and grand opening ceremonies are scheduled for May 21.
Under the grant, up to $28 million is available nationwide for rural business development. In addition, there is a $3.75 million Native American set-aside for this program. For more information on the RBDG, please contact Michelle Kelly at (775) 887-1222, Ext. 118.
USDA Rural Development Nevada State Director Sarah Adler said the program has worked well for rural Nevada. “Projects in our state have competed well in the past for these funds, especially within the Native American allocation,” she said.
All grant applications must be sent to the USDA Rural Development Nevada State Office, 1390 S. Curry St., Carson City, NV, 89703.
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has an active portfolio of more than $210 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.
