By Andi Anderson
To address the challenges faced by rural communities, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has awarded a $100,000 grant to Syncurrent, an innovative startup using artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline access to grant funding. This initiative aims to support underserved communities by simplifying the process of identifying and securing financial resources.
The grant will fund a pilot program involving six rural communities in Michigan, providing them with access to Syncurrent’s AI-powered platform. This platform identifies relevant state, federal, and philanthropic funding opportunities, delivering a curated list of potential grants to users. The pilot is part of the USDA’s rural business-cooperative service agreement, designed to promote economic growth in rural areas.
“Michigan’s rural communities have told us time and again they struggle with awareness of federal funding sources available to them, and with the capacity to apply for funding when they become aware of it,” said USDA Rural Development Acting State Director for Michigan Valarie Handy in a statement. “We’re excited to support Syncurrent in this pilot program that will encourage rural communities to begin using artificial intelligence in seeking out federal and state investment dollars.”
Syncurrent’s platform eliminates the need for communities to sift through thousands of grant options, allowing them to focus directly on applying for funding opportunities that align with their needs. Dhruv Patel, CEO and co-founder of Syncurrent, emphasized the platform's transformative potential. "Our goal is to empower communities to secure the resources they need efficiently, fostering local economic growth," Patel explained.
Syncurrent has also developed tools to address the unique needs of tribal governments, ensuring their data sovereignty is protected while helping them access funding opportunities. Michigan is home to 12 tribal governments, each with distinct data policies, making Syncurrent’s tailored approach particularly valuable.
Communities interested in participating in the pilot program can apply by contacting pilot@syncurrent.com. Participants will work with Syncurrent’s team and USDA Rural Development to implement the platform, with the selection process concluding on December 11.
“Syncurrent is driven by a commitment to make a positive impact for underserved communities, specifically through helping them access resources, govern their data and drive local economic growth,” said Matthew Jaquez, co-founder and COO of Syncurrent, in the statement. “By working closely with these communities and governments, we intend to use their direct feedback to modify and build Syncurrent around their needs.”
This initiative demonstrates how technology can bridge gaps and foster economic resilience in rural areas.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy