More Rural Opportunities: Easier Access to USDA Grants
This act aims to make it easier for small rural communities, especially those with significant federal land, to access Department of Agriculture (USDA) grants. Citizens in these counties can expect improved access to funds for business development, internet, telemedicine, and other services, potentially enhancing quality of life and creating new opportunities. Local matching requirements will be reduced, and technical assistance provided, simplifying the process for local governments and Tribal governments to secure funding.
Key points
50% reduction in local matching fund requirements for counties with over 50% federal land and populations up to 100,000, making it easier to secure funding.
Additional technical assistance for these counties and local governments during the USDA grant application process, increasing their chances of success.
Priority given to applications from counties that have not received support in the past 10 years, aiming for a more equitable distribution of benefits.
Flexibility in grant scoring criteria to prevent small and isolated communities from being disadvantaged due to size or lack of institutional partners.
Expired
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