Dept. announces grant opportunity for rural areas

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is offering a competitive grant program to promote the sustainability of land-based industries and support infrastructure benefiting rural communities in Michigan.  

"Agriculture is a cornerstone of Michigan's economy, which is why at MDARD, we are focused on how best we can support our agricultural industry. Through these grants, MDARD will be able to support our land-based industries better while rebuilding and improving Michigan's infrastructure," said Director Gary McDowell. "These efforts further underscore Governor Whitmer's bold commitment to rural Michiganders."

The Rural Development Fund grants are available for projects addressing expansion and sustainability of land-based industries; worker training related to land-based industries; and energy, transportation, housing, communications, water, and wastewater infrastructure to benefit rural communities and micropolitan statistical areas. Specific projects for consideration may include projects that lead to the expansion and location of meat processing facilities in an eligible area.

Land-based industries include food and agriculture; forestry; mining; oil and gas production; and tourism. Eligible counties include those with a population no greater than 70,000 residents or micropolitan statistical areas. For a complete list of eligible counties, visit www.michigan.gov/mdardgrants.

The proposals will be evaluated through a competitive process. The maximum limit on project grant fund requests is $100,000. The total allotment of funding for the current year is approximately $1.8 million. All proposals require at least a 30 percent cash match. Applicants for grant funds will be asked to describe how the project will impact and produce measurable outcomes for rural communities.

Those interested in applying for the grant program should visit www.michigan.gov/mdardgrants to view the application and program guidelines. All applicants are required to submit three letters of support.
MDARD will be hosting an informational webinar on this grant opportunity on Tuesday, October 19 at 11 a.m. Additional information on the webinar can be found on the website.

Any additional communications concerning this Request for Proposal should be sent to mda-grants@michigan.gov. Proposals must be received at the email above no later than 3 p.m. on November 22. Proposals received after 3 p.m. will not be considered.

The Rural Development Fund grants are funded by the Nonferrous Metallic Minerals Extraction Severance Tax. The Rural Development Fund was created under PA 411 of 2012. Revenue from the severance tax is in accordance with PA 410 of 2012.