Rural Readiness Program Cohort

Charlotte Davis
50 Harry S Truman Parkway
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
410.841.5774
Charlotte.davis@maryland.gov

The Rural Readiness Program is designed to foster sustainable economic development and strengthen community capacity in rural Maryland. By supporting place-based initiatives, the program aims to empower local communities to develop tailored solutions that promote economic resilience, improve infrastructure, and enhance quality of life.

Program goals include:

• Promoting economic diversification and growth in rural areas
• Strengthening community organizations and leadership capacity
• Supporting innovative, community-driven projects aligned with local needs
• Facilitating partnerships among community stakeholders, businesses, and government agencies

Applicants should have a program/project focus. Proposed projects or programs must directly contribute to place-based economic development or capacity building within the community. Preference will be given to applicants demonstrating collaboration with local stakeholders, including businesses, educational institutions, or other community organizations.

Cohort training will be held covering 6 to 8 sessions between September and December 2026. Projects and programs should typically be completed between July 2027 and June 2028. Cohort training sessions include:

1. Program orientation
2. Grant writing workshop
3. Project development and technical assistance
4. Business planning
5. Partnerships and funding resources
6. Project readiness and final review

Eligible applicants are community-based nonprofit organizations, local government entities, tribal groups, or other communities groups located in or serving Maryland's 18 designated rural areas.

There is no cost for this training. Participants can apply for a technical assistance grant upon completion of the training.

Submit an application in the form of an email including a letter of interest with required details and resume to rmc.mda@maryland.gov.