Business and Cooperative Programs

Business Programs work in partnership with the private sector and community-based organizations to provide financial assistance and business planning. Recipients may include individuals, corporations, partnerships, cooperatives, public bodies, non-profit corporations, Federally Recognized Indian tribes, and private companies. Visit the following website for a complete overview: Business Programs

Cooperatives are a cornerstone of business development in rural communities, and can provide residents with new job opportunities, enhanced educational and health care services, and products which enable them to compete in today's global marketplace. Cooperative Programs provide assistance for rural residents interested in forming new cooperatives and administers programs that fund value-added producer grants, rural cooperative development centers, and small socially-disadvantaged producers. Visit the following website for a complete overview: Cooperative Programs

Follow this link for Rural Cooperatives Magazine: Rural Cooperatives (1088-8845) is published bimonthly by Rural Development, Business and Cooperative Programs, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Stop 0705, Washington, DC.

Announcements:

• Notice of Funds Availability- Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG)

• Notice of Funds Availability- Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) (App deadline extended to May 31, see below)

• Most REAP APPLICATION DEADLINES EXTENDED to May 31, 2013 See Federal Register for Details

• Notice of Solicitation of Applications- Intermediary Relending Program (IRP)

SUCCESS STORIES! 

• Southeast Georgia Biofuels Creates 35 Jobs

• Atlanta Gear Works Fills Niche Market for Southeastern U.S.- Doubles Workforce

• Gracemont Assisted Living Facility Provides Quality Living and Skilled Jobs

• Classic Self Storage, Renovated and Serving the Needs of the Community