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Jessica Zufolo, deputy administrator for the USDA Rural Utilities Service, was a guest speaker at the 75 th anniversary of the Rural Electrification Administration (REA) celebration in McCook, Nebraska late last month. Also attending were USDA Rural Development Nebraska State Director Maxine Moul...

When it comes to beer, Oregon is known far and wide as a hub of innovation and artistry or, as we locals call it, “beer-topia.” Since the 1980s, small breweries have been popping up across Oregon thanks to the state’s pristine water, abundant hops and grain fields, forward-thinking craft brewing...

As we enter the autumn season, the harvest is on most Wisconsinites' minds. I'm particularly excited to be participating in an upcoming gathering in Reedsburg where the Wormfarm Institute’s annual Fermentation Fest will be taking place from October 4 th through the 13 th. In addition to workshops on...

For working parents in isolated rural communities, quality child care is a lifeline that allows them an opportunity to obtain employment so they can provide for their families.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2015 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced $12.5 million in loans and grants for 39 projects that will help rural businesses in 21 states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. "Supporting small, rural businesses helps create jobs and helps promote entrepreneurship,"...

WASHINGTON, June 14, 2016 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Lisa Mensah today presented Wells Fargo with a Champion of Rural Housing award as part of USDA's observance of National Homeownership Month. "USDA is fortunate to work with many outstanding...

WASHINGTON, June 26, 2012 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the selection of 28 recipients in rural communities for loans and grants to spur economic development and create or save jobs. "The funding I am announcing today will help rural businesses, entrepreneurs and tribal...

A recent Food for Progress (FFP) project in Bangladesh shows how a small effort can have a big impact on a community. The Rural Enterprise for Alleviating Poverty project is managed by Winrock International with the help of USDA and the Ministry of Fisheries in Bangladesh. The goal of this project...

WASHINGTON, March 30, 2012 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA has selected for funding 10 projects nationwide to help rural small businesses and agricultural producers reduce energy consumption and implement renewable energy technologies. The funding will be made available...

Earlier this month, I joined colleagues from several USDA agencies in Knoxville, Tennessee to discuss biomass production and renewable energy opportunities with producers. The event was sponsored by the Farm Foundation.