The Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) is pleased to announce it has approved a 2024 grant allotment of $3,000 per member-cooperative to support community-owned entities, non-profits, and community-based projects. As a member, Polar Communications encourages community projects in our service territory to apply for this funding.
Eligible projects: community-owned businesses (café, grocery store, motel, other); community facilities (such as ambulance services, fire districts, recreation, hospital/clinic, community center, etc.); or community-based projects (such as school/youth projects, other) that benefit rural areas and lead to community betterment. Workforce development (training to meet the needs of current and future business and industry to maintain a sustainable competitive economic environment; training, development opportunities, continuing education programs, etc.) RDFC does not provide funds for medical fundraisers or general operating costs.
Matching funds: 4 dollars of other funds to every $1 of RDFC funds. (for example, $12,000 in matching funds needed for a $3,000 grant request) The member cooperative is responsible for verifying the matching funds. The matching funds DO NOT need to come from the utility cooperative. RDFC will not require documentation.
Maximum/minimum grant amounts: The minimum grant amount is $500; the maximum is $3,000. The limit is four grants per member cooperative, totaling $3,000 for 2024.
Time frame: February 23, 2024 – December 31, 2024
Applications and process information can be found on the Polar Communications website at polarcomm.com/about-us/#grants. The application for funds needs to flow through Polar Communications. Once Polar receives the RDFC Grant Application, it will be reviewed by the board of directors at the next regularly scheduled meeting. If the board votes to recommend the project for the RDFC Grant, the application will be submitted to the RDFC Board for review. Applicants will be notified when the information submitted is returned to Polar Communications.
Contact Information:
Polar Communications:
Amy Thompson – 701-284-7221 | [email protected]
Polar Communications
P.O. Box 270 | 110 4th St E
Park River, ND 58270
www.polarcomm.com
RDFC:
Mary Helvig – 701-667-6404 | [email protected]