USDA Announces $8 Million Investment to Support 17 Cooperatives Nationwide; Montana Center to Receive $524,993
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced in Washington on October 19 an $8 million investment to support cooperatives and rural economic development across the country. The funding is provided through a partnership agreement between USDA's Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which administers the funding for Rural Development.
RBCS Administrator Gimmie Jo Jansonius announced the investment. The money comes through the Rural Cooperative Development Grant Program and will empower 17 cooperatives to expand cooperative and mutually owned business development and drive economic opportunities in rural communities. USDA said the announcement comes during Cooperative Month in October, when the department is highlighting its investments in cooperatives.
Among the recipients is the Montana Cooperative Development Center, Inc. (MCDC), which will receive $524,993 as a two-year investment to expand access to cooperative development services, strengthen governance and leadership, and advance sector-based business opportunities through statewide, regional and national partnerships. USDA said the work will support locally owned businesses, preserve essential rural services and jobs, and enhance education and capacity within Montana's cooperative ecosystem.
Jansonius said USDA is supporting cooperatives that are rooted in community, resilience and shared purpose, and that supporting cooperatives strengthens farmer profitability, opens new market doors, sparks innovation and creates jobs in rural America. NIFA Administrator Dr. Jaye Hamby said the institute is proud to help get the funding to organizations that help rural cooperatives start, grow and thrive. MCDC Executive Director Tracy McIntyre said the center is excited and grateful to receive the two-year investment.
USDA also said that since the start of the current administration, under Secretary Brooke Rollins, it has invested more than $18.1 billion in loans and grants to support 242 cooperatives through Rural Development programs, including critical electric and broadband infrastructure.
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 德克萨斯州 Wharton County 一名农业合作社农户在玉米地里查看作物长势（资料照片）。美国农业部 USDA 摄，公共领域图片，经 Wikimedia Commons 发布。
