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Turning on a light, running water from a faucet, or calling a friend are activities that most of us take for granted. Rural utility providers are the lifeblood in their communities offering services important in our everyday lives and in supporting rural industries. The U.S. Department of...

What do immigrant farmers from Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda, and Liberia have in common with central rural Massachusetts? The Answer: World Farmers Inc. or WFI.

Cross posted from the White House Blog: This week is National Small Business Week. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), along with agencies across the Obama Administration, are hosting events in five cities. These events provide expert advice, mentoring and explore topics ranging from...

One of the best things about working for USDA as a deputy under secretary for Rural Development is the ability to meet with so many brilliant business leaders from around the country. Last week, at the White House, I met with dozens of folks to discuss economic development and community renewal...

We’re celebrating the 80 th anniversary of the creation of the Rural Electrification Administration this month. The REA was created because in 1935, rural areas had no electricity—no lights or power to transform their hard work and efforts into efficiency and productivity. With the creation of the...

WASHINGTON, July 25, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking applications for funding to help support the development of advanced biofuels, renewable chemicals and biobased products. "The bioeconomy is a catalyst for economic...

WASHINGTON, Dec. 15, 2016 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today released the final year-end report of the Obama administration's results creating jobs and investing in rural communities nationwide. "USDA Rural Development has measurably improved the lives and livelihoods for millions of rural...

“The Rural Business Enterprise Grant program (RBEG) is one of the most flexible economic development opportunities offered by USDA Rural Development.” Those words from New Mexico State Director Terry Brunner kicked off a webinar workshop recently to discuss the RBEG program and how to apply for...

LEXINGTON, N.C., September 7, 2012 –Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today highlighted the Obama Administration's successful efforts to grow rural manufacturing, create more jobs and help generate economic opportunity in small towns and rural communities. During a visit to Tarheel Plastics, LLC in...

Thanks to USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service funding and Home Communications, Inc., those who live and work in a rural Kansas community don’t have to travel miles for broadband service. High school and college students can upload, research, and complete homework assignments online...