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PENNSYLVANIA WEATHER

State Funding Bolsters Growth in Michigan’s Rural Towns

State Funding Bolsters Growth in Michigan’s Rural Towns


By Jamie Martin

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is inviting applications for its 2025 Rural Development Fund Grants, available until 5 p.m. (EST) on December 3, 2025.

These grants help strengthen rural economies and sustain land-based industries such as agriculture, forestry, mining, oil and gas, and tourism. They also fund projects that improve rural infrastructure including housing, energy, transportation, and communications.

"Rural communities and land-based industries are vital to Michigan's economy," said MDARD Director Tim Boring. "Rural Development Fund Grants help expand and sustain crucial industries that deliver economic opportunities, build prosperity and improve quality of life in rural communities throughout our state."

Counties with fewer than 70,000 residents and micropolitan statistical areas are eligible. Communities not listed may still apply if they demonstrate recognition as rural under a federal or state program.

Applicants may request up to $100,000 and must provide at least a 30 percent cash match. Each proposal requires three letters of support and must clearly explain its measurable impact on rural communities.

An informational webinar will be hosted by MDARD on October 30, 2025, at 10 a.m. (EDT). Applications must be submitted through the MiAgGrants online system before the December 3 deadline.

The program is funded by the Nonferrous Metallic Minerals Extraction Severance Tax, created under Public Acts 410 and 411 of 2012. More information, including eligible counties and application guidance, is available on the MDARD website.

Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska


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