Socially-Disadvantaged Groups Grant in Michigan

The primary objective of the Socially Disadvantaged Groups Grant program is to provide technical assistance to socially-disadvantaged groups through cooperatives and Cooperative Development Centers.

Eligible applicants are cooperative development centers, individual cooperatives, or groups of cooperatives that serve socially disadvantaged groups and have a governing board or board of directors where the majority is comprised of individuals who are members of socially disadvantaged groups. The applicant cooperative or center can be located in any area, but the groups assisted must be located in an eligible rural area.

Grants must be used to provide technical assistance to socially-disadvantaged groups in rural areas. Examples of eligible technical assistance include conducting feasibility studies, preparing business plans, strategic planning, and providing leadership training.

Applicants must register their organization in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) to receive a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and note their CAGE code prior to applying. Applications require completion of standard federal forms, letters of commitment or support from other organizations, a detailed work plan, and a budget. Suggested formats and application templates are available through local USDA Rural Development offices, and applications must be submitted electronically prior to the deadline.