State Funding Bolsters Growth in Michigan’s Rural Towns

Oct 16, 2025
By Farms.com

Funding supports land based industries and rural projects across Michigan

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has announced that applications for the Rural Development Fund Grants are now open through 5 p.m. (EST) on December 3, 2025.

These grants are designed to promote the sustainability of land-based industries and improve infrastructure benefiting Michigan’s rural communities. Eligible industries include agriculture, forestry, mining, oil and gas production, and tourism.

"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."

Projects eligible for funding include initiatives that expand or sustain land-based industries, provide worker training, or enhance infrastructure such as energy, water, wastewater, transportation, housing, and communications.

The program is open to counties with populations under 70,000 or those classified as micropolitan areas. Communities may also self-identify as rural by referencing a state or federal rural designation in their application.

Grant requests can reach up to $100,000, with a minimum 30 percent cash match required. Each proposal must include three letters of support and demonstrate measurable benefits to rural areas.

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

Funding for the Rural Development Fund Grants comes from the Nonferrous Metallic Minerals Extraction Severance Tax, established under Public Acts 410 and 411 of 2012. Additional details and application guidelines are available on the MDARD website.

Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska

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