Rural Community Development Initiative Grants in Michigan

The Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) Grants program, administered by USDA Rural Development, provides grant funding to qualified intermediary organizations to deliver capacity building and technical assistance to recipient organizations. The primary goal of the program is to support housing, community facilities, and community and economic development projects in low-income rural communities and federally recognized tribal lands, strengthening local capacity to implement sustainable development initiatives.

Eligible intermediaries include private, nonprofit organizations (including community development corporations and faith-based organizations), federally recognized tribes, and public bodies. The intermediary must have been in existence and actively providing technical assistance or capacity building for at least three years prior to application. Intermediary applicants must also secure 100 percent matching funds from non-federal sources. Ultimate recipients of the technical assistance must be low-income rural communities, community-based non-profit organizations, or federally recognized tribes.

Eligible project activities must focus on developing the capacity and technical ability of recipient organizations to undertake community development, community facilities, or housing programs. Funds may be used to provide training in areas such as board governance, organizational and financial management, strategic planning, and project development. Grant funds may not be used for direct construction or capital improvements, basic operational expenses of the intermediary, or duplicate existing programs.

Applications must be prepared in accordance with USDA Rural Development guidelines and submitted through Grants.gov or directly to the USDA Rural Development Michigan State Office. A complete proposal includes federal application forms, a detailed scope of work and budget, documentation of intermediary experience, verification of recipient eligibility, and written commitments for the required matching funds. Applicants are encouraged to consult with USDA Rural Development Michigan staff prior to submission for guidance on program requirements.