The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development office has awarded millions of dollars to rural and agricultural communities in Iowa through various programs. These programs funded clean energy projects, community development, and the food supply chain in the state.
One program, the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), funded 195 projects, including solar array installations and wind turbine projects, with grants awarded to businesses and producers. Another program provided funding for projects related to housing, small businesses, cooperatives, and public safety. Additionally, $5.2 million was invested in 24 Iowa projects through the USDA Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) grant program, aimed at strengthening local food production and supply chains.
These investments are expected to create jobs, enhance supply chains, and boost the economy in rural Iowa. The USDA Rural Development portal has upcoming deadlines for grant applications, providing opportunities for further growth and development in the state.
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