USDA releases Socially-Disadvantaged Groups Grant

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rural Development is now requesting applications for the Socially-Disadvantaged Groups Grant Program for FY 2021. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 9, 2021. 

What is the purpose of the Socially-Disadvantaged Groups Grant Program?

The primary objective of the Socially-Disadvantaged Groups Grant program is to help small businesses retain and create jobs in rural areas by providing technical assistance to socially-disadvantaged groups through cooperatives and Cooperative Development Centers.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include cooperatives, groups of cooperatives, and cooperative development centers that serve socially-disadvantaged groups, and of which a majority of the board of directors or governing board of the applicant is comprised of individuals who are members of socially disadvantaged groups.

How may funds be used?
Grants must be used to provide technical assistance to socially-disadvantaged groups in rural areas.  Examples of technical assistance are:
  • Feasibility studies
  • Business plans
  • Strategic planning
  • Leadership training
What are the funding levels for this program?

Approximately $3 million is available to fund projects in fiscal year 2021. The maximum award amount for is $175,000.

Is there a cost sharing or match requirement?

There is no cost sharing or matching requirement.

When is the grant deadline?

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 9, 2021. 

The request for applications can be found here.

For more information on this grant or how to apply with Morrison’s assistance, please contact the Morrison Grants Team by email at grants@morrisonco.net or call us at 530-893-4764.

Questions?

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