|
For Immediate Release – August 27, 2003Contact - Harold Alford (785) 271-2701 |
USDA Rural Development Announces
Economic Development Grants
Topeka, KS – USDA Rural Development State Director Chuck Banks announced today $154,035 in grant funds that will bring new economic opportunities and job creation to rural Kansas. The assistance includes funding from the ‘Rural Business Enterprise Grants’ program and ‘Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program’ announced by Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman this week.
“This assistance underscores the commitment of the Bush Administration to a vibrant and healthy rural America,” said Veneman.
State Director Banks stated “These grants will provide important investments in the areas of rural business enterprise assistance and energy efficiency enhancement. Rural Kansas continues to be a leader in forging new solutions in improving our state’s economy. Investing in our communities helps Kansas families by creating new jobs and improving the quality of life in these rural areas.”
State Director Banks reported the following Kansas recipients, grant amounts, and purpose:
Western Prairie RC&D, Inc., Colby, Kansas - $124,960
To establish a Revolving Loan Fund from the ‘Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program’ to help small and emerging business in the following Kansas counties: Cheyenne, Rawlings, Decatur, Sheridan, Thomas, Sherman, Wallace, and Logan.
Mackison Foods, Inc., d.b.a. Steve’s Thriftway, Valley Falls, Kansas - $29,075 For energy efficiency improvements to the community’s rural grocery store, funded from the ‘Energy Efficiency Improvements Grant Program’.
(continued)
PRESS RELEASE – Page 2
Funding of these recipients will be contingent upon meeting the conditions of the grant agreement.
USDA Rural Development’s mission is to deliver programs that support increasing economic opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for rural Americans. As a venture capital entity, USDA Rural Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure in rural America.
For additional information regarding USDA Rural Development programs, individuals may call the Agency’s state headquarters at 785-271-2702 or log onto the state’s Rural Development website at: www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks
- end -