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WASHINGTON, March 10, 2004 –
Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman today announced more than $6.8 million
in technical assistance grants to 27 nonprofit community-based development
organizations, low-income communities or Federally recognized tribes to
improve their ability to develop rural housing, technology, economic development
and community facilities in 18 states.
“The Bush Administration is committed to the
strengthening of rural communities,” said Veneman. “These
grant funds support rural community programs to increase economic opportunity
and improve the quality of life for their local residents.”
The technical assistance grant program was created by
Congress in 2000, to assist in the development or increase the capacity
of nonprofit organizations, low-income rural communities or Federally
recognized tribes to undertake projects in the areas of housing, community
facilities and community and economic development in rural areas.
In Maine for example, Coastal Enterprises, Inc. will
use $298,784 in grant funds to provide technical and financial assistance
for programs that support housing, small business development and a small
business revolving loan fund. In the Northwest, the Affiliated Tribes
of Northwest Indians will receive $400,000 to assist 10 tribes with the
ability to address technology and telecommunications needs that will allow
them to advance their economic and community development interest. In
addition to the funding announced today, the Bush Administration has provided
nearly $12 million to support community and economic development efforts
in 21 states.
Recipients are required to obtain matching funds that
will double the impact of the USDA grants. Funding of individual recipients
will be contingent upon meeting the conditions of the grant agreement.
A complete list of 2004 recipients can be found at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/newsroom/news.htm.
USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs
in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve
the quality of life of rural residents. As a venture capital entity, Rural
Development provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster
growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community
and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is
available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA's
web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.
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