USDA announces major funding on cooperative month anniversary
The USDA is celebrating the 60th anniversary of National Cooperative Month by announcing an investment exceeding $17 billion in rural cooperatives, aimed at fostering rural prosperity and clean energy initiatives. This funding represents a continued commitment to strengthening rural economies and advancing President’s Investing in America agenda.
Secretary Tom Vilsack stated that these investments underscore the essential role of cooperatives in creating local wealth and expanding economic opportunities in rural communities.
With over 30,000 cooperatives operating in the U.S., these entities are instrumental in generating substantial annual revenue and employment.
The announcement coincides with the President’s historic $7.3 billion financing through the New ERA program for rural electric cooperatives, marking the largest investment in rural electrification since 1936. These initiatives highlight the USDA's focus on enhancing local and regional food production systems and building new income streams for farmers using climate-smart practices.
Events planned for the month-long observance include participation in the Cooperative IMPACT Conference, emphasizing the cooperative model’s role in economic resilience and community empowerment.
For further details on the support available for rural cooperatives through USDA programs, interested parties are encouraged to visit the USDA Rural Development Cooperative Services website.