Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has awarded 22 Rural Development Fund Grants to promote the sustainability of land-based industries and support infrastructure that benefits rural communities.
The grants aim to create economic opportunities, generate employment and expand Michigan's food and agriculture industry. Out of 78 proposals received by MDARD, 22 projects were awarded, totaling over $1.8 million, and leveraging a match of more than $1.6 million.
The awarded projects include Binkley Deer Processing, which aims to expand into processing livestock, Cass County will develop a GIS-based map of broadband availability, Cherry Bay Orchards will expand housing infrastructure for employees, and Christian Youth Enterprises will expand tourism and recreational opportunities in Ogemaw County.
Delta County Road Commission will upgrade the 1.0-mile segment of CR-434 from a gravel road to a paved all-season road to provide a vital link in the farm to market road network. Other projects will improve child care, trail maintenance equipment, housing options, and create new jobs.
MDARD’s investments will create economic opportunities, expand Michigan's food and agriculture industry, and promote rural sustainability.
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Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle