Agriculture Under Secretary Lisa Mensah today announced 28 grants for over $4 million to support business and economic development in Tribal communities in 14 states (see attached listing). Funding comes from the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program, which promotes the development of small and emerging businesses in rural areas.
“USDA is committed to increasing economic opportunities in Native American communities by investing in projects that will create well-paying jobs and improve the quality of life for Tribal families,” Mensah said during a visit here today. “These strategic investments are supporting a wide range of business needs that will help Native American enterprises – from technical assistance and training to revolving loan funds.”
USDA RD State Director Terry Brunner added, "We’ve found that small businesses need as much help as possible to grow and create jobs. That’s why our financial support is so vital in helping Native American business owners and communities grow their businesses and ultimately help our economy grow.”
The recipients receiving funding from the Rural Business Development Grants here in New Mexico are:
|
USDA has designated these areas for targeted assistance through the StrikeForce for Rural Growth and Opportunity Initiative. Since USDA established StrikeForce in 2010, more than $16 billion in investments have been directed to the country’s most economically challenged areas to create jobs, build homes, feed kids, assist farmers and conserve natural resources.
Congress created the RBDG program under the 2014 Farm Bill. The program combines the former Rural Business Enterprise Grant and Rural Business Opportunity Grant programs. RBDG sets aside a portion of funds for business development and job creation efforts on behalf of federally recognized Indian Tribes. Financing for the grants announced today comes from those targeted funds.