WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2022 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the Department is investing $981 million to help create new and better market opportunities and expand essential services for rural people, businesses and entrepreneurs in 47 states, Guam and the Virgin Islands.

“Rural people provide the everyday essentials our country depends on,” Vilsack said. “Under the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris, USDA is dedicated to helping people through job creation and expansion of entrepreneurial opportunities in the rural places they live. The partnerships we’re announcing today demonstrate USDA’s commitment to advocating for rural business owners and building brighter futures for everyone in rural America.”

The funding will help keep resources and wealth made by rural people right at home through affordable financing and technical assistance. It will help rural Americans start businesses and allow small business owners to grow. It will also open the door to new economic opportunities for communities and people who historically have lacked access to critical resources and financing.

For example:

• In Alabama, the West Dallas Water Authority will use a $268,000 loan and a $788,000 grant through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan Guarantee Program to make improvements to the utility’s water system. These improvements will provide clean and modern water service to 69 homes and one church, removing the need for residents to depend on individual water wells. The improvements will also add fire hydrants, increasing fire protection in the area. This project will benefit 3,488 rural residents in Dallas County.
• In Iowa, Woodbury County REC will use a $1,500,000 loan and a $300,000 grant through the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program to construct a new medical clinic for Moville Area Medical Clinic Inc. in Woodbury County. This facility will increase patient access, assist medical professionals in delivering quality healthcare, and promote employment and economic development in this rural area. This investment will also create 12 new jobs.
• In Idaho, Arsiero Air will use a $4,498,000 loan through the Rural Business and Industry Loan Guarantees Program to purchase a K-1200 heavy lifting helicopter to expand their timber harvesting operations. The project will play a critical role in allowing Arsiero Air to access timber in otherwise inaccessible locations, and thereby allowing the completion of new and existing timber harvesting contracts. The project will create 18 new jobs.