USDA offers Rural Business Opportunity Grants

Grants may be made to public bodies, nonprofit corporations, Indian tribes on Federal or State reservations and other Federally recognized tribal groups, and cooperatives with members that are primarily rural residents and that conduct activities for the mutual benefit of the members.

The RBOG program promotes sustainable economic development in rural communities with exceptional needs through provision of training and technical assistance for business development, entrepreneurs, and economic development officials and to assist with economic development planning.

The limit for this grant is up to $250,000.

DEADLINE: June 28, 2010

ELIGIBILITY: The RBOG program is primarily a training and technical assistance program. Funds may be provided for development of export markets; feasibility studies; development of long term trade strategies; community economic development planning; business training and business based technical assistance for rural entrepreneurs and business managers; establishment of rural business incubators; and assistance with technology based economic development.

The types of projects that may be funded might include identification/ analysis of business opportunities that will utilize local material and human resources; provision of leadership development training to existing or prospective rural entrepreneurs and managers; business support centers; centers for training, technology and export trade; and, economic development planning.

How do I apply for a grant?

To apply for funding for the RBOG program, please contact your Rural Development State Office. (Montana – http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/mt/) You can also review the annual Notice of Funds Available and the RBOG program regulation for more information.

For further grant opportunities visit http://www.grants.gov