Michigan's Office of Rural Development Launches Rural Readiness Grant Program

Michigan's Office of Rural Development has recently announced its inaugural Rural Readiness Grant Program, which aims to enhance the preparedness of communities for investment opportunities. The program will provide funding of up to $50,000 per project to support collaborative planning and capacity initiatives.

According to Director Sarah Lucas, rural communities have struggled to avail themselves of grant opportunities due to a lack of shovel-ready projects that meet eligibility criteria, which is often caused by insufficient budgets and staff.

To address this issue, the program will provide reimbursement grants to 70 eligible counties across the state, which will help address the pressing issues of housing, broadband, childcare, and other needs.

The program's primary objective is to enhance the readiness of rural communities for future investments while finding solutions to their bigger challenges. Lucas emphasizes the program's focus on building the readiness of these communities for the future.

In addition, the Rural Readiness Grant Program will prepare Michigan to access federal grants and build upon the USDA's Rural Partners Network, which connects communities to federal programs. A second round of funding is anticipated later this year. The Office of Rural Development is part of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, which is responsible for the initiative.

Photo Credit: GettyImages-SkyF