Rural Business Development Grant Program

The **Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)** program, administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, supports projects that promote economic development and job creation in rural areas. This grant offers funding for business opportunity and enterprise projects benefiting towns and areas outside urban peripheries with populations under 50,000. The application window for FY 2025 closes at 4:30 p.m. local time on **February 28, 2025**. Eligible applicants include public bodies, government entities, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and nonprofit organizations serving rural areas. For-profit entities, individuals, and businesses are not eligible. Applicants can use RBDG funding for community and economic development initiatives, technical assistance, feasibility studies, strategic planning, training, and infrastructure projects that support rural small and emerging businesses. RBDG applications are divided into two funding categories: **Enterprise grants** and **Opportunity grants**. Enterprise grants focus on direct support for rural businesses, including training, market research, construction, pollution control, and revolving loan fund capitalization. Opportunity grants, which account for up to 10% of the annual funding, are used for broader economic development, feasibility studies, and entrepreneurial training. Applications are evaluated based on job creation potential, local economic needs, alignment with economic development priorities, commitment of non-federal funding, and the applicant's experience with similar projects. Additional factors and requirements are detailed in the program’s **Notice of Solicitation of Applications (NOSA)**. Applications must be submitted to USDA Rural Development state or local offices. Applicants are encouraged to review state-specific timelines and requirements. Assistance and guidance can be obtained by contacting the local USDA RD office. The program is governed by the **Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act** and detailed in **7 CFR Part 4280, Subpart E**. This program aims to boost economic growth and enhance the quality of life in rural America by providing crucial support to businesses and communities striving to thrive in smaller, underserved areas.