26 STATES TO RECEIVE $2.5 MILLION IN RURAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2002 - Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman today announced the selection of 43 grant recipients to receive more than $2.5 million in rural business opportunity grant funds. The grants are designed to assist in the fostering of economic development in rural areas.

"Promoting business and community development in rural areas is an important priority for the Bush Administration," said Veneman. "These grants will lead to greater opportunities and community growth for thousands of rural residents."

Veneman noted that 425 businesses in 26 states will benefit from the grant funds, along with the expectation that at least 2,347 jobs will be created or saved. Grants for the 43 proposals will be provided through USDA's Rural Development Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG) program.

A complete list of the individual grant recipients can be found at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/newsroom/2002/ rboglist26states.html .

USDA Rural Development serves as the lead federal entity for rural development needs and administers program assistance through three agencies: Rural Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service and Rural Utilities Service. Further information on USDA Rural Development can be obtained by contacting any USDA Service Center or by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov .

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