Applications are currently being accepted for the USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant for projected 2014 funding of the program. The RBEG program provides grants for rural projects that finance and facilitate development of small and emerging rural businesses, help fund distance learning networks, and help fund employment related adult education programs.

To assist with business development, RBEGs may fund a broad array of activities.

The deadline to submit RBEG applications in Georgia has been set for March 10.

Although a notice of funds availability has not been issued for this program at this time, applications are now being accepted due to the need to be prepared for selecting and obligating projects in anticipation of 2014 funding.

In years past, RBEG state allocated funds were due to be obligated by June 30 of the year of application.

Rural public entities (towns, communities, state agencies, and authorities), Indian tribes and rural private non-profit corporations are eligible to apply for funding.

At least 51 percent of the outstanding interest in any project must have membership or be owned by U.S. citizens or resident aliens.
Applicants should contact their USDA Rural Development Area Office for information and to apply.

A contact list of Georgia Rural Development RBEG team members by area office is posted online at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/SupportDocuments/ga-bp-rbeg-teamlist2014.pdf.