Rural Business Development Grant Program
This grant supports rural economic growth and job creation by funding eligible business and community projects through business opportunity and enterprise grants.
Funder: Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Due Dates: June 15, 2026 (SECD applications) | June 30, 2026 (regular RBDG applications)
Funding Amounts: ~$27.7 million total available; no minimum or maximum award; typical awards range from $10,000 to $500,000 for 1-year projects.
Summary: Supports economic development and job creation in rural areas through grants to eligible public bodies, tribes, and nonprofits for business and community projects.
Key Information: SECD applications require an additional SECD application form alongside the standard RBDG application.
Description
The Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) Program provides competitive grants to support economic development and job creation in rural areas. Funding is available for business opportunity and business enterprise projects, including technical assistance, training, land and infrastructure development, feasibility studies, revolving loan funds, and other activities that benefit rural communities and small businesses. The program is open to public bodies, government entities, Indian tribes, and nonprofit organizations serving rural areas.
