The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced $27.7 million in funding through the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) Program, aimed at strengthening rural economies, creating jobs, and investing in community development across the country. For businesses, nonprofits, and organizations operating in rural communities, this is an important opportunity worth understanding.
At Stone Bank, rural growth is central to what we do. As one of the top SBA lenders in Arkansas and nationally among banks our size by loan volume, we work every day to help businesses and communities access the financing they need to move forward.
What the RBDG Program Funds
The Rural Business Development Grant Program supports a wide range of initiatives, including entrepreneur training, feasibility studies, business planning, construction and renovation projects, equipment purchases, and broader community economic development efforts.
Eligible applicants include rural cooperatives, nonprofits, public agencies, higher education institutions, and federally recognized Tribes. While individuals and for-profit businesses cannot apply directly, many organizations use RBDG funding alongside lending solutions to support larger development goals.
How Stone Bank Can Help
Many businesses are surprised to learn they may qualify for USDA-backed financing even if they cannot apply for grants directly. Businesses located in communities with populations of 50,000 or fewer may be eligible for USDA Business and Industry Loans, which can offer competitive interest rates, longer repayment terms, and flexible financing structures through government-backed guarantees.
Stone Bank helps clients structure lending solutions that work alongside USDA grant opportunities, including Community Facilities Loans, Business and Industry Loans, and Rural Energy for America Program financing. We work with businesses, nonprofits, cooperatives, public bodies, and Tribal entities across the country to support rural growth and development.
Application Deadlines
The USDA has announced two deadlines for the Rural Business Development Grant Program:
- June 15, 2026 for Strategic Economic and Community Development applications
- June 30, 2026 for all other eligible applicants
Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 4:30 p.m. local time on the applicable deadline date.
Questions about applying? Visit USDA.gov or speak with your local USDA Rural Development office for more information.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Whether you are pursuing a USDA grant, evaluating a USDA Business and Industry Loan, or exploring SBA financing, Stone Bank’s lending team can help you assess your eligibility and structure the right solution for your project.
Contact us today at (833) 253-2265 or visit our USDA Loans page to connect with a Stone Bank lender.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is provided for general informational purposes only and is based on program details available at the time of publication. Loan approval is subject to credit approval and other bank or government program requirements. Grant program eligibility requirements, deadlines, and funding availability are subject to change. Stone Bank does not administer USDA grant programs. Readers should consult directly with the USDA or a qualified advisor to confirm current program details before making financial or business decisions.