WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled more than $194 million in funding to support economic development projects across 14 states, Puerto Rico, and Tribal communities. The announcement, highlighted by USDA Rural Development Under Secretary Dr. Basil Gooden, reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing commitment to assisting historically underserved rural and Tribal communities through the Rural Partners Network (RPN).
RPN, launched in April 2022, is an initiative designed to bridge gaps in federal funding and ensure equitable access to resources for rural and Tribal areas. Since its inception, RPN has facilitated over $8.5 billion in federal investments, including $1.5 billion directly from the USDA, to address long-standing challenges such as infrastructure, housing, connectivity, and health care.
“The Rural Partners Network has broken down barriers so underserved rural communities and families can access the resources they need to prepare for the future,” said USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Today, we’re celebrating several more examples of how aligning those resources with local blueprints for success will keep rural and Tribal communities across the country thriving for generations to come.”
Economic Impact and Key Projects
The latest investment will fund 118 projects focused on fostering economic growth, reducing costs for families, and modernizing critical infrastructure in rural communities. Specific initiatives range from transitioning to clean energy to addressing workforce shortages and enhancing water and sewer systems.
Highlights include:
- Southeast Alaska: Improvements to a hydroelectric plant on Prince of Wales Island will boost clean energy production, while a biobased economic development program aims to create jobs in the timber industry.
- Southern Georgia: A technical college will invest in technology and training systems for heavy equipment operators and welders to address regional labor gaps.
- Kentucky: Appalachian communities will benefit from upgraded sewer systems, job creation efforts, and energy cost savings through solar technology.
- West Virginia: Investments will support telehealth services, family businesses transitioning to clean energy, and water infrastructure modernization.
- Puerto Rico and Other Regions: Projects will target sustaining local businesses, addressing environmental challenges, and improving household water systems.
Streamlining Access to Grants
USDA also emphasized its efforts to simplify the grant application process through the Better Grants Better Service initiative. By gathering feedback from applicants and staff, the agency has identified 33 recommendations to improve program accessibility and streamline funding opportunities.
The USDA and its collaborative partners remain focused on addressing the unique needs of rural communities, ensuring they have the tools and resources necessary to build sustainable economic futures.
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