The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced an investment exceeding $194 million to support economic development in Rural Partners Network (RPN) communities and neighboring areas across 14 states and Puerto Rico. The announcement was made by USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, with USDA Rural Development Under Secretary Dr. Basil Gooden highlighting the initiative at a seminar in Little Rock, Arkansas.
The RPN was launched by the Biden-Harris Administration in April 2022 to ensure historically underserved rural and Tribal communities receive equitable funding from federal agencies. This collaboration involves 25 federal agencies and regional commissions.
Since its inception, over $8.5 billion has been invested in 36 RPN community networks, including more than $1.5 billion from the USDA for projects enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, housing, and connectivity. "The Rural Partners Network has broken down barriers so underserved rural communities and families can access the resources they need to prepare for the future," stated Secretary Vilsack.
The recent funding will support 118 projects aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth in rural and Tribal communities. These initiatives are a result of collaborations between community networks and federal staff residing within these communities.
Beneficiary states include Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, North Carolina, West Virginia, Wisconsin as well as Puerto Rico. Other supported regions include Minnesota, Ohio, Virginia and Washington.
Projects aim to reduce costs for families while creating jobs and supporting business growth in economically challenged rural areas. Initiatives also focus on transitioning to clean energy and modernizing essential water infrastructure.
Examples of funded projects include improvements to a hydroelectric plant in southeast Alaska; technology acquisition for workforce training in southern Georgia; sewer system upgrades in Kentucky; bakery revitalization efforts in North Carolina; telehealth service expansions in West Virginia; and solar power installations for agricultural businesses in Wisconsin.
Additionally, USDA is working on streamlining its grant programs through an initiative called Better Grants Better Service. During Phase 1 of this effort, USDA received recommendations aimed at improving program accessibility and efficiency.
RPN continues to expand its network with full-time USDA staff providing technical assistance tailored to local needs across participating communities. The program benefits from partnerships with philanthropic organizations focusing on advancing equity within rural America.
For further details about RPN or USDA's broader initiatives supporting rural development across America’s heartland visit their official websites.
