Supporting Local Organizations

Rural Development
Finance Corporation
Grant Program

Communities in the DRN service area are eligible to apply for the Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) grant to support community-owned entities, non-profits, and community-based projects now through Sept. 1, 2024. DRN is a member of RDFC, a North Dakota nonprofit finance and development corporation, which encourages economic diversification and community vitality through funding.

Grants from $500 up to $3,000 are available to eligible projects that benefit rural areas and lead to community progress and betterment. Qualifying organizations and businesses are Community-Owned Businesses—café, grocery store, motel, other; Community Facilities: ambulance, fire districts, recreation, hospital/clinic, community center, etc.; and Community-Based Projects: school or youth projects in rural areas leading to improvement.

To apply for the Community Improvement Grant from RDFC:

• Complete the grant application. A fillable PDF is available here.
• Print and mail the application to: DRN, P.O. Box 69, Ellendale, ND 58436
• DRN will review submitted applications and submit them to RDFC
• Once received by RDFC, the RDFC board will make the final approval on grant requests
• Deadline to apply is Sept. 1, 2024.

RDFC is making these funds available to build awareness of their larger loan program for community-based projects and non-profit entities with low interest loans.

For an application, assistance, or questions concerning RDFC, please contact Mary Helvig at 701-667-6404 or mhelvig@ndarec.com.