WASHINGTON, September 22, 2006-Agriculture Deputy Secretary Chuck Conner today announced that $1.5 million will be provided to fourteen 1890 Land-Grant Universities. The funds will be used to assist in the creation of new businesses, promote the growth of cooperatives, and provide new employment opportunities through the promotion of Rural Development programs.

"USDA's partnership with the 1890 Institutions makes it possible for rural entrepreneurs to get the assistance they need in order to compete, both here at home and in the global marketplace," said Conner. "These universities have a rich history of helping rural residents in historically underserved areas."

Through a longstanding partnership with USDA Rural Development, the 1890 Land-Grant Institutions have provided technical assistance and opportunities for business building throughout the areas they serve. For example, West Virginia State University provides economic outreach services in eleven rural counties in southern West Virginia. Fort Valley State University in Georgia uses USDA funds to promote economic development, create businesses and expand cooperative development opportunities. Kentucky State University will provide business development assistance to the communities of Cadiz, Dawson Springs, Eddyville, Elkton, Greenville, Oak Grove and Princeton. A complete listing of the successful applicants is available at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

USDA Rural Development's mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life in rural communities. As a venture capital entity, Rural Development has invested over $72 billion since the beginning of the Bush Administration to provide equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Over 1.2 million jobs have been created or saved through these investments. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.