RBS: Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2023 Federal Register

Jan 20, 2023 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) inviting applications for the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) program for fiscal year (FY) 2023. The RISE program is intended to improve the ability of distressed rural communities to create high-wage jobs, accelerate the formation of new businesses, and help rural communities identify and maximize local assets. Applications that will assist rural communities to recover economically, ensure rural residents have equitable access to Rural Development programs and benefits from Rural Development funded projects, and reduce climate pollution and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change through economic support are encouraged. Applications are due by April 20, 2023.

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USDA: USDA Equity Commission Federal Register

Jan 17, 2023 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will hold a virtual public meeting of the USDA Equity Commission and Subcommittee on Agriculture on January 31, 2023, and February 2, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Eastern each day. Agenda items may include but are not limited to administrative matters; presentations by the Rural Community Economic Development and Agriculture Subcommittees; and deliberations and voting of recommendations to be included in an interim report. Pre-registration for the meeting is requested.

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RBS: Notice of Solicitation of Applications for the Rural Business Development Grant Programs for Fiscal Year 2023; Correction Federal Register

Dec 20, 2022 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) correcting the November 23, 2022 notice soliciting applications for the Rural Business Development Grant Program. This correction clarifies that Intergovernmental Review under Executive order 12372 is required for the program.

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USDA Invests $102 Million to Create Economic Opportunities, Expand Access to Water Infrastructure and Rehabilitate Homes for Underserved Rural People Across the U.S.

Dec 16, 2022 - Announces that the that USDA is investing $102 million to expand access to housing and water infrastructure to underserved and rural people in 47 states and American Samoa. The 263 projects will create economic opportunities and improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in rural America.

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Broadband Access Still a Challenge in Rural Affordable Housing

Dec 8, 2022 - Highlights several specific housing-related challenges that can create a barrier for broadband investment and adoption in rural areas, including affordability and income, the varying location of subsidized and unsubsidized affordable housing in rural areas. Notes that government at the state and federal level, as well as internet service providers and consumers, must recognize their specific circumstances to successfully increase broadband access.

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Biden-Harris Administration Invests $981 Million to Expand Market Opportunities for Rural Businesses and Entrepreneurs in 47 States, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands

Dec 6, 2022 - Announces $981 million in funding to support financing and technical assistance for rural business and small business growth in 47 states, Guam and the Virgin Islands. Highlights funded projects in Alabama, Iowa, and Idaho and provides a list of impacted states and the 8 programs that will administer the 242 awards.

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