Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant
Grant Opportunity Analysis
The Rural Business-Cooperative Service of the USDA is offering the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program, aimed at funding rural projects through local utility organizations. Eligible applicants include former Rural Utilities Service borrowers, nonprofit utilities, and current borrowers from Rural Development Electric or Telecommunication Programs, with a focus on creating and retaining employment in rural areas. The program provides zero-interest loans up to $2 million and grants up to $300,000, which can be used to establish Revolving Loan Funds for job-creating projects. Interested parties should note that applications must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. local time on specified quarterly deadlines, with the final closing date for this funding opportunity set for June 30, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Cindy Mason at cindy.mason@usda.gov or call 202-690-1433.
Eligible Applicants
To receive funding (which will be forwarded to selected eligible projects), an entity must be: A former Rural Utilities Service borrower who borrowered, repaid or pre-paid an insured, direct or guaranteed loan. Nonprofit utilities that are eligible to receive assistance from the Rural Development Electric or Telecommunication Programs. Current Rural Development Electric or Telecommunication Programs borrowers.