The USDA Announced $210 million to be invested in renewable energy infrastructure through the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership. The USDA reports that 21 states and private partners have matched federal funds to expand infrastructure and increase fuel options for consumers.

Electric Cooperatives boost rural development nationwide with USDA loans and grants. According to ECT.coop, the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program loaned $32.5 million to 29 electric co-ops for projects that created 288 jobs and retained another 436.

As reported by WVU Today, WV BAD Buildings Program has launched their website and toolkit. The BAD Buildings toolkit is an invaluable resource designed specifically for West Virginia communities to help them address the issue of blighted, abandoned, and dilapidated properties.

Sauk County, Wisconsin is linking local culture and the arts with the unique attributes of the community to grow the economy. According to Star Tribune, Sauk County is one of only three counties in the state, and the only rural county that has a public arts funding program.

The White House Reports that the Administration has announced over $14 million for partnerships in 12 states intended to leverage a range of economic development programs to assist communities negatively impacted by changes in the coal industry.

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