If you are a small business owner (50 employees or less) in the state of Vermont and you have an energy conservation program that needs funding, the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is one to keep your eye on. Why? Because this program offers grants through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). They are currently accepting applications for both grants and loans.
Who qualifies
Small (50 or fewer employees) businesses or agricultural producers in Vermont who have programs or processes that improve the environment or conserve energy may apply for the grant. The recent grants totaling $121,855 include federal funds that cover up to 25 percent of project costs. It will be matched with more than $360,000 in other funding.
More funding available
Funding for the REAP program through the USDA Rural Development agency recently authorized, through the 2014 Farm, Foods and Jobs Bill, $68 million in USDA grants. This means more opportunities for small businesses and agricultural producers to take advantage of free grant money to enhance their businesses.
Stated Vermont and New Hampshire State Director Ted Brady regarding the grant program, “USDA Rural Development ...grants incentivize investment that helps businesses stay in the black and helps our country move towards energy independence.”
For more information on how to apply for a REAP grant, visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/nh-vtHome.html