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State Representative John Ward
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4333
For more information contact: Ted Modrich 651-296-5809
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REP. JOHN WARD ENCOURAGES LOCAL BUSINESSES TO APPLY FOR GRANTS OFFERED BY USDA
(ST. PAUL) — Rep. John Ward (DFL – Brainerd) today encouraged constituents and local businesses to apply for grants being offered by the US Department of Agriculture in economic development and telecommunications.
The USDA is currently accepting applications for loans and grants to create jobs and spur economic development, with funding provided through the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program (REDLG). Applications must be received by March 31 for third quarter funding and June 30 for fourth quarter funding. Applications must be made through an area specialist — constituents in Rep. Ward’s district can contact Thomas Leach at (218) 829-5965, extension 150; or at thomas.leach@mn.usda.gov.
Under this program, the USDA provides zero-interest loans and grant support to utilities. These funds are then re-loaned to businesses for projects that will create and retain employment in rural areas.
“This program is an excellent opportunity for the business in my district," Rep. Ward said. “These zero-interest loans and grants provide businesses an opportunity to grow, expand and hire new workers, while improving the local economy and boosting our region. These grants are another example of how government can be a strong partner and assist in private sector job creation. I strongly encourage local businesses to apply.”
The USDA is also accepting applications for telecommunications grants to provide access to education, training and healthcare resources in rural areas. This funding is provided through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program. Applications must be submitted by April 25. For more information, contact Dominic Henderson at Dominic.Henderson@wdc.usda.gov.
“Advances in telecommunications can be the key to improving the access and quality of education and health care in our area,” Rep. Ward said. “By applying for these grants, local businesses have the opportunity to improve the telecommunication potential of our region, opening the door to improvements in telemedicine and distance learning — two smart reforms in health care and education.”
News Items
- Local Projects Among $18 million in Small Cities Development Grants - (Posted: Jun 12 2013 9:46AM)
- Rep. Ward Encourages Non-Profits to Apply for MNsure Consumer Assistance Grants - (Posted: Jun 3 2013 1:39PM)
- Rep. Ward Appointed to Serve on Select Committee on Controlled Substances and Synthetic Drugs - (Posted: May 30 2013 9:58AM)
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