Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces Support for Small, Socially Disadvantaged Agricultural Produ Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA is accepting grant applications to assist small, socially disadvantaged agricultural producers and cooperatives in rural areas to spur job creatio
a regional economy. The project also aims to help Latino families increase income, improve their community, eat healthier and develop valuable leadership skills.
Applications for USDA Rural Development's Small, Socially Disadvantaged Producer Grants are due July 24. Application materials may be obtained at the Rural Development website http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/ or by contacting the nearest USDA Rural Development State Office. For additional information, see the April 25, 2012, Federal Register, page 24678, or click here http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-04-25/html/2012-9997.htm
In 2011, the President signed an Executive Order establishing the first White House Rural Council chaired by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. In order to better coordinate Federal programs and maximize the impact of Federal investment, the White House Rural Council will work throughout government to create policies to promote economic prosperity and a high quality of life in our rural communities.
Since taking office, President Obama's Administration has taken historic steps to improve the lives of rural Americans, put people back to work and build thriving economies in rural communities. From proposing the American Jobs Act to establishing the first-ever White House Rural Council – chaired by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack – the President is committed to using Federal resources more efficiently to foster sustainable economic prosperity and ensure the government is a strong partner for businesses, entrepreneurs and working families in rural communities.
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an active portfolio of more than $165 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural areas.
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