# Rural Development - U.S. Department of Agriculture

- Enhancing Rural Medicine Enhancing Rural MedicineAMESHA B. HAMMONDFri, 04/12/2024 - 17:45      Release Date              2024-04-12                Contact              Rick Florence                                          To meet the challenges of a post-pandemic period and to keep pace with the needs of a diverse community, St. Mark's Medical Center (SMMC) looked to USDA's Emergency Rural Health Care Grant program for help.SMMC contributed $4.8 million in uncompensated care and free services in FY2021, providing healthcare close to home for patients in the Texas communities of Fayette and Lee Counties."We are proud to be able to help our most vulnerable community members access quality health care, and as a rural, community hospital, this is also why we look for outside funding opportunities such as grants and endowments from our foundation and the community, said President Mark Kimball."The USDA emergency rural healthcare grant was a game changer for the 65-bed, 100,000-square foot not-for-profit hospital. The grant funds replaced 10 year old pre-owned capsa carts and helped to procure a building automation system to monitor temperature, humidity & airflow of the entire facility. The emergency grant also provided patient monitors used for medical decision-making, bedside patient monitors, telemetry transmitters, central monitoring stations, and vital sign monitors in the Emergency Department, Surgical Services, Ambulatory Care Services, and the Medical/Surgical inpatient unit.“As I reflect on 2021, I also continue to be impressed with the level of care that our team provides for the more mainstream services available at SMMC -- orthopedic, cardiac, surgical, emergency, wound care, and more.”St. Mark's is a part of the Community Hospital Corporation (CHC) family of hospitals. CHC is a not-for-profit company whose sole mission is to help not-for-profit hospitals, such as St. Mark's Medical Center, remain community-operated and governed. St. Mark's is the proud recipient of the TMF Health Quality Institute Silver Award, exemplifying the hospital's dedication to continuous quality improvement. USDA Rural Development is pleased to help SMMC continue its healthcare mission.            Obligation Amount              312,384                Year of Obligation                        2022                          Congressional District              TX-10              Senator's Last Names              Coryn, Cruz                Special Emphasis/Initiatives                        Community Facilities          Grants                          Photo Release              No
- USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small Continues College Tour with Visit to UW-Madison USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small Continues College Tour with Visit to UW-MadisonTEGAN E. GRIFFITHFri, 04/12/2024 - 15:00                                      Name              Tegan Griffith                              Email              Tegan.Griffith@usda.gov                              Phone              715-496-3164                              City              Madison                              Release Date              Apr 12, 2024                                                                              MADISON, Wisc., April 12, 2024 – U.S. Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small visited University of Wisconsin – Madison on Friday, April 12, to highlight the department’s ongoing support for agricultural research and education at UW-Madison and met with students to discuss potential career opportunities available for the next generation of farmers, foresters, conservationists, and entrepreneurs.The Deputy’s visit included a tour of the D.C. Smith Greenhouse, and meetings with UW-Madison leadership and student groups.“Thanks to historic funding secured by President Biden, USDA is creating new opportunities for the next generation of farmers, foresters, researchers, and entrepreneurs in Wisconsin,” said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small. “These investments will bring economic opportunity back to rural communities, better position students to build a more resilient food system and give them the chance to succeed in the communities they love.”During her college tour, Deputy Secretary Torres Small will visit campuses across the country to underscore how colleges and universities are working with USDA to advance rural prosperity, climate-smart practices, competition, and sustainability. Deputy Secretary Torres small will also highlight how USDA is making a difference on college campuses, from new funding for education and training to cutting edge research to economic development to build a food and agriculture food system. The Deputy’s College Tour will include visits to Land-grant Universities, 1980s Land-grant Colleges and Universities, 1994 Institutions, Hispanic-serving institutions, community colleges, and state schools.USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) provided more than $5 billion in support to land-grant university campuses since fiscal year 2021, offering student-centered scholarships to recruit, mentor, and train undergraduate students for jobs in food and agricultural sciences and related fields. NIFA has invested over $105 million at UW-Madison during the Biden-Harris Administration. $60.59 million has been awarded competitively, with $44.79 million being capacity funding. Highlighted projects include:Returning To Our Roots: Rebuilding Native Farming Traditions and Food Sovereignty For Great Lakes Indigenous People – ($10M; FY23): This project uses a partnership between the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin Tribal Conservation Advisory Council, Menominee Nation, and the Great Lakes Intertribal Food Coalition to scale up contemporary climate-smart Indigenous food systems that align with cultural values, restore community health and well-being, and foster economic development.	Biobased, fully soil-biodegradable mulch films prepared from biomass for sustainable bioeconomy- ($1M; FY23): This integrated research-extension project will develop 100% biobased and fully soil-biodegradable mulch films from low-cost and renewable biomass (e.g., poplar wood, forest residues, sawdust) through a facile process of dissolution and regeneration. Techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment will be conducted to quantify the economic feasibility and potential environmental impact of the proposed films for mulch applications compared with conventional polyethylene films. Successful completion of the project will provide a fully biobased and soil-biodegradable mulch film to replace plastic ones, which will benefit agriculture, the environment, and the bioeconomy.USDA’s Rural Development (RD) is one of several agencies under the USDA umbrella working to help improve the economy and quality of life in rural America and across Wisconsin. To date, Wisconsin RD has invested over $1.5 billion since 2021 to support rural housing, infrastructure, and business development in communities across the state.“Our programs help position rural communities to compete in a global economy and open opportunities for the workforce of tomorrow,” said Julie Lassa USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director. “USDA’s investments in Wisconsin are reaching communities in every corner of the state, including those that have too often been left behind. These investments will help bring more housing, improved infrastructure, and increase business development that spurs economic opportunity and builds rural prosperity.”USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety, and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America.To subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit the GovDelivery Subscriber Page.USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.###
- The impact investing opportunity in Puerto Rico’s economic comeback The impact investing opportunity in Puerto Rico’s economic comebackOMAR D. COLON MONTESFri, 04/12/2024 - 08:58                                      Name              Miguel Ramirez                              Email              miguel.ramirez@usda.gov                              Phone              305-342-9153                              City              San Juan                              Release Date              Apr 12, 2024                              External Link              https://impactalpha.com/the-impact-investing-opportunity-in-puerto-ricos-econom...
- USDA Invests $1 Million to Support Renewable Energy in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula USDA Invests $1 Million to Support Renewable Energy in Northern Michigan and the Upper PeninsulaALEC H. LLOYDThu, 04/11/2024 - 14:27                                      Name              Alec Lloyd                              Email              alec.lloyd@usda.gov                              Phone              517-324-5204                              City              East Lansing                              Release Date              Apr 11, 2024                                                                              U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Michigan Brandon Fewins today announced more than $1 million in grants to northern Michigan and Upper Peninsula agriculture producers and rural businesses to make investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. “These projects will help lower costs, enhance incomes and strengthen the resilience of rural businesses,” said Fewins.  “While solar panels are a common improvement, considerable benefits can be gained from upgrading to more energy efficient equipment.” The grants are made available through the Rural Energy for America Program, and total Michigan funding in this announcement is $1,032,853.Bunches of Blessings LLC, in Baraga County, will use a $9,975 grant to purchase and install a four kilowatt (kW) photovoltaic system. This project will produce 4,952 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year. Project payback is 29 years.Van Dam Enterprises Inc., in Charlevoix County, will use a $108,000 grant to purchase and install a 58.8 kW roof mount solar photovoltaic system. Van Dam Enterprises Inc. has been operating for 10 years and they design, build, and restore wooden boats. This project will realize $10,720 per year in savings and will replace 71,899 kWh (91 percent) per year, which is enough energy to power six homes. Project payback is 21 years.Boyne Boat Yard, Inc., in Charlevoix County, will use a $53,500 grant to purchase and install a 28 kW roof mount solar photovoltaic system. Boyne Boat Yard, Inc. is a marine service and storage company that has been operating for 10 years. This project will realize $5,256 per year in savings and will replace 34,130 kWh (100 percent) per year. Project payback is 21 years. Elmer's County Market, Inc., in Delta County, will use an $857,878 grant to purchase and install a 380.89 kW roof mount solar PV system. Elmer's County Market Inc. is a small, independently owned retail grocery store that has been operating for 17 years in a disadvantaged area. This project will realize $28,679 per year in savings and will replace 461,814 kWh (17 percent) per year, which is enough energy to power 42 homes. Leelanau Company LLC, in Grand Traverse County, will use a $35,000 grant to purchase and install energy-efficient lighting. This project will realize $6,057 per year in savings, reducing consumption from 237,182 kWh to 61,240 kWh per year. Project payback is five years.USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.To subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit GovDelivery subscriber page. 
- Director Estatal de USDA Rural Development para Puerto Rico Participa en NEXA una Cumbre de Inversión que se celebra en el Centro de Convenciones de Puerto Rico Director Estatal de USDA Rural Development para Puerto Rico Participa en NEXA una Cumbre de Inversión que se celebra en el Centro de Convenciones de Puerto RicoOMAR D. COLON MONTESThu, 04/11/2024 - 11:33                                      Name              Miguel Ramirez                              Email              miguel.ramirez@usda.gov                              Phone              305-342-9153                              City              San Juan                              Release Date              Apr 11, 2024                                                                              San Juan, Puerto Rico - 10 de abril de 2024 - Maximiliano J. Trujillo-Ortega, Director Estatal de USDA Rural Development para Puerto Rico fue invitado a hablar en la Cumbre de Inversión NEXA que se celebra en el Centro de Convenciones de Puerto Rico esta semana del 10 al 11 de abril de 2024. Hablará sobre el tema de las finanzas mixtas y las oportunidades en Puerto Rico. Esta Cumbre puede ser un vehículo que permita a los agentes de cambio trabajar juntos y discutir las mejores prácticas, datos de vanguardia y las estrategias más efectivas necesarias para diseñar un futuro más próspero para Puerto Rico. Los socios en la cumbre son el Banco de la Reserva Federal de Nueva York, la Iniciativa Global Clinton, los Boys & Girls Clubs de Puerto Rico y la Oficina del Gobernador de Puerto Rico, entre otros. La cumbre es un punto de encuentro esencial para líderes, inversionistas y organizaciones comprometidas con el cambio y la colaboración para crear un epicentro de innovación y colaboración para la isla. Trujillo-Ortega indicó que la Administración Biden-Harris ha puesto a disposición de Puerto Rico niveles sin precedentes de fondos federales para resiliencia, recuperación, infraestructura y crecimiento económico. “Los programas de financiamiento de USDA Rural Development son instrumento que pueden facilitar la cooperación entre los sectores privados, públicos, y filantrópicos.” “Hay una oportunidad histórica para que Puerto Rico haga un cambio transformador en la isla.” El Director Estatal de USDA Rural Development informó a la audiencia sobre la importancia de los programas de financiamiento de la agencia, como:  Programa de Energía Rural para América (REAP) proporciona financiamiento de préstamos y subvenciones a productores agrícolas y pequeñas empresas rurales para el sistema de energía renovable o para realizar mejoras de eficiencia energética. Ventanas de solicitudes, 30 de junio de 2024 y 30 de septiembre de 2024.	 Programa de Préstamo de Intermediarios (IRP) proporciona préstamos a bajo interés del 1% a prestamistas o intermediarios locales que prestan a las empresas para mejorar las condiciones económicas y crear empleos en las comunidades rurales. Plazo de presentación de solicitudes: 1 de julio de 2024	 Programa de Asistencia a Microempresarios Rurales (RMAP) proporciona préstamos y subvenciones para ayudar a la puesta en marcha y el crecimiento a través de un Fondo Rotatorio de Microcréditos Rurales o para proporcionar capacitación y asistencia técnica a prestatarios de microcréditos y microempresarios. Plazo de presentación de solicitudes: 30 de junio de 2024.	Subvención para Grupos Socialmente Desfavorecidos proporciona asistencia técnica a grupos socialmente desfavorecidos en áreas rurales a través de cooperativas y Centros de Desarrollo Cooperativo. Plazo de presentación de solicitudes: 3 de junio de 2024.	 Programa de Préstamos para Infraestructura Eléctrica proporciona capital de inversión para apoyar la creación, mejora y mantenimiento de sistemas de generación, transmisión y distribución de electricidad. El objetivo es garantizar que las comunidades rurales tengan acceso a una energía fiable. La ventana de la solicitud está abierta.	 Programa de Ahorro de Energía Rural (RESP) brinda acceso a capital de energía limpia para que las familias, empresas y organizaciones rurales puedan hacer la transición energética y mejorar la calidad de vida en las áreas rurales mediante el Re-préstamo a través de tasas competitivas. La ventana de la solicitud está abierta. USDA Rural Development es el socio perfecto porque proporciona préstamos y subvenciones para ayudar a ampliar las oportunidades económicas y crear empleos en las zonas rurales.  Esta asistencia apoya mejoras de infraestructura, desarrollo empresarial, vivienda, instalaciones comunitarias como escuelas, seguridad pública y atención médica, y acceso a Internet de alta velocidad en áreas rurales. Para obtener más información, visite www.rd.usda.gov/pr. Si desea suscribirse a las actualizaciones de USDA Rural Development, visite nuestra página de suscriptores de GovDelivery. Puedes seguirnos en nuestra cuenta de Twitter @RD_PuertoRico.                       USDA es un proveedor, empleador y prestamista que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades. 
- USDA Rural Development State Director for Puerto Rico Participates in NEXA Summit, an Impact Invest Summit that is Being Held in the Puerto Rico Convention Center USDA Rural Development State Director for Puerto Rico Participates in NEXA Summit, an Impact Invest Summit that is Being Held in the Puerto Rico Convention CenterOMAR D. COLON MONTESThu, 04/11/2024 - 11:21                                      Name              Miguel Ramirez                              Email              miguel.ramirez@usda.gov                              Phone              305-342-9153                              City              San Juan                              Release Date              Apr 11, 2024                                                                              San Juan, Puerto Rico - April 10, 2024 – Maximiliano J. Trujillo-Ortega, USDA Rural Development State Director for Puerto Rico was invited to speak at the NEXA Summit that is been held in the Puerto Rico Convention Center this week from April 10 to 11 of 2024. He will be speaking on the issue of blended finance and opportunities in Puerto Rico. This Summit can be a vehicle that allows changemakers work together and discuss best practices, cutting edge data, and the most effective strategies needed to design a more prosperous future for Puerto Rico. The partners in the summit are the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the Clinton Global Initiative, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico, and the governors of Puerto Rico Office, among others. The summit is an essential meeting point for leaders, investors, and organizations committed to change and the collaboration to create an epicenter of innovation and collaboration for the island. Trujillo-Ortega indicated that the Biden-Harris Administration has made unprecedented levels of federal funding available to Puerto Rico for resilience, recovery, infrastructure, and economic growth. “USDA Rural Development funding programs can facilitate cooperation between the private, public, and philanthropic sectors.” “This is a historic opportunity for Puerto Rico to make transformative change on the island.” USDA Rural Development State Director briefed the audience on the importance of the Agency’s financing program of the agency such as:  Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small business for renewable energy system or to make energy efficiency improvements. Application Windows June 30, 2024, and September 30, 2024.	Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) provides 1% low interest loan to local lenders or intermediaries that relend to businesses to improve economic conditions and create jobs in rural communities. Application Window July 1, 2024	Rural Microentrepreneur Asistance Program (RMAP) provides loans and grants to help startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund or to provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs. Application Window June 30, 2024.	Socially-Disadvantage Groups Grant provides technical assistance to socially disadvantage groups in rural areas through cooperatives and Cooperative Development Centers. Application Window June 3, 2024.	Electric Infrastructure Loan Program provides investment capital to support the creation, improvement and maintenance of electric generation, transmission, and distribution systems. The objective is to ensure that rural communities have access to reliable energy. Application Window Open.	Rural Energy Saving Program (RESP) provides access to clean energy capital so that rural families, businesses, and organizations can make energy transition and improve quality of life in rural areas by relending through competitive rates. Application Window Open. USDA Rural Development is the perfect partner because it provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas.  This assistance supports infrastructure improvements, business development, housing, community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care, and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/pr. If you'd like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscribers page. You can follow us on our Twitter account @RD_PuertoRico.                       USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
- USDA Rural Development and Cocopah Tribe to Host Program Services Day on April 20, 2024 USDA Rural Development and Cocopah Tribe to Host Program Services Day on April 20, 2024ISAAC J. NAVARRETEWed, 04/10/2024 - 18:09                                      Name              Isaac Navarrete                              Email              isaac.navarrete@usda.gov                              Phone              (928) 622-0200                              Release Date              Apr 10, 2024                                                                              Yuma, Ariz. (Apr. 10, 2024) – On Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development and the Cocopah Indian Tribe will host a Program Services Day at the West Cocopah Reservation Community Center, inviting Tribe members and Yuma County residents to learn and apply for the 504 Home Repair Loan and Grant program and other housing programs. Single Family Housing staff will inform residents about available grants and loans and process homeowner applications, with bilingual services available. Representatives from the Veterans Affairs (VA), Social Security Administration (SSA), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will be present to answer questions about their services.The Cocopah Indian Tribe is also hosting its Earth Day Festival at the same time next to Community Center, offering live music, food, and fun for the entire family."Join us in celebrating Earth Day and taking advantage of our expert team coming to you. We’re proud to partner with the Cocopah Indian Tribe through the Rural Partners Network to offer program services to rural residents,” says Rural Development Arizona State Director Charlene Fernandez. “Our home repair grants and loans offer an exciting opportunity for qualifying applicants to make those home repairs they’ve wanted to do but have not had the resources to do so; see what Rural Development can do for you.”WHO: USDA Rural Development & Cocopah Indian TribeWHAT: Cocopah Indian Tribe and Rural Development Program Services DayWHEN: Saturday, April 20, 2024, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. WHERE: West Cocopah Community Center, 14251 S. Centre Ave. Somerton, AZ          To subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit GovDelivery subscriber page.###USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
- Rural Energy for America Program Helping with Input Costs for Agricultural Producers Rural Energy for America Program Helping with Input Costs for Agricultural ProducersDEBORAH L. BRUMFIELDWed, 04/10/2024 - 09:47      Release Date              2024-04-10                Contact              Deborah Brumfield                      706-552-2595                                      Brad and Amy Thompson upgraded their grain drying operations with help from the Rural Energy for America Program. Thompson Family Farm is a family-owned farming operation that harvests and dries grain at its facility in Donalsonville,Seminole County, GA. This project will save the farm $16,248 per year and will replace 125,189 kWh (56%) per year, which is enough electricity to power eleven homes.            Obligation Amount              $223,000 REAP Grant                 Year of Obligation                        2023                          Congressional District              Georgia 02, Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.              Program              Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy Systems & Energy Efficiency Improvement Guaranteed Loans & Grants                Senator's Last Names              Warnock, Ossoff                County or Town              Donalsonville                Special Emphasis/Initiatives                        Inflation Reduction Act                          Photo Release              Yes
- State Director Awarded Friend of the Haliwa-Saponi People State Director Awarded Friend of the Haliwa-Saponi PeopleROBERT E. KERNSTue, 04/09/2024 - 14:29      Release Date              2024-04-09                Contact              Sunshine Richardson                      252-583-7171                                       For his unwavering commitment to the advancement and prosperity of Native American communities in North Carolina , USDA Rural Development North Carolina State Director Reginald Speight was bestowed with the esteemed "Friend of the Haliwa-Saponi People" award at a heartfelt ceremony held January 20, 2024. The prestigious accolade, presented by the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the betterment of the Tribe and its people.The "Friend of the Haliwa-Saponi People" award not only celebrates Speight's past accomplishments but also acknowledges his ongoing efforts to create more and better market opportunities for rural communities. He has demonstrated a visionary approach to fostering prosperity in the areas he serves, by promoting economic recovery and investing in infrastructure improvements in rural North Carolina.As a prominent figure in rural development initiatives, he has played a pivotal role in facilitating crucial conversations and meetings e leading to significant advancements and restoration of communications with North Carolina’s Native population.“By working hand in hand, we can pave the way for a brighter future, where our communities thrive and prosper. Together, we forge a path of unity, resilience, and shared prosperity for generations to come,” said Haliwa-Saponi Chief Dr. Brucie Ogletree Richardson at the awards ceremony.Speight's journey to this recognition has been marked by a series of remarkable achievements and tireless advocacy efforts.Working in the role in his role as Rural Development’s North Carolina State Director Speight's is serving marginalized populations through his deliberate efforts to provide essential services to native communities that have been historically overlooked.His dedication extends to breaking down barriers that hinder access to vital resources, such as USDA services, for low-income families. Through his strategic approach and relentless advocacy, he has ensured that all rural residents, including Native Americans, have equitable access to opportunities for growth and development.In his acceptance speech, Speight expressed deep gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving meaningful change. He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing his advocacy work, pledging to remain a steadfast ally and advocate for the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe and all Native American communities in North Carolina.Written by Sunshine Richardson            Obligation Amount              00                Year of Obligation                        2024                          Congressional District              01              Program              Tribal College Initiative Grants                Senator's Last Names              Tillis, Budd                Special Emphasis/Initiatives                        Rural Development                          Photo Release              No
- USDA Grants Available to Strengthen Cooperatives Serving Socially Disadvantaged Groups USDA Grants Available to Strengthen Cooperatives Serving Socially Disadvantaged GroupsANDREW H. STACYTue, 04/09/2024 - 09:42                                      Release Date              Apr 05, 2024                              External Link              https://www.rd.usda.gov/media/file/download/usda-rd-sa-rcdg-04042024.pdf