New guide simplifies grant applications process

By: Farms.com  

Rural communities often face challenges when applying for grants, despite the availability of substantial funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act.   

Lindsay Mouw, a senior policy associate at the Center for Rural Affairs, acknowledges the desire and need for improvements in these communities but emphasizes that the application process can be daunting for those with limited staff, time, or expertise.  

To address this issue, the Center for Rural Affairs has released a valuable resource, the "Grant Application Guide for Rural Communities." This guide aims to simplify the grant application process, providing step-by-step assistance to community leaders. 

The guide covers essential aspects of grant application, including identifying suitable opportunities, preparing for application, creating a timeline, and crafting and submitting an application.  It includes a list of commonly used terms and phrases associated with grant applications, making it a comprehensive tool for rural communities. 

Mouw emphasizes the importance of rural communities accessing funding opportunities provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. She hopes that this guide will serve as a crucial resource for communities as they plan for infrastructure, energy, and conservation projects. 

Investing in rural communities not only improves their quality of life but also enhances their ability to retain and attract residents and businesses.  

To further assist communities, the Center for Rural Affairs plans to host a webinar, providing guidance on using the grant application guide and addressing any questions community leaders may have.