Source:  Press Release, 10/5/10

Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development Dallas Tonsager today announced support to help rural cooperatives expand economic activity in their communities. The Under Secretary made the announcement on behalf of Secretary Tom Vilsack during a speech in Washington marking October as National Cooperative Month.

"President Obama and Secretary Vilsack have recognized the importance of America's Rural Cooperatives during Cooperative Month. Rural cooperatives not only provide thousands of jobs, they invigorate local communities and businesses," Tonsager said. "The grants I am announcing today will help these recipients continue their work. Their success underscores the importance of the cooperative system as a successful business model."

The funding is being provided through USDA's Rural Cooperative Development Grant (RCDG) program. During his speech, Tonsager highlighted several cooperative projects and acknowledged the efforts of co-op officials from across the country. According to the National Cooperative Business Association, the nation's 30,000 cooperatives account for more than $650 billion in revenue and more than 2 million jobs.

The following organization has been selected to receive Rural Cooperative Development Grants. Funding is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the grant agreement.

North Carolina State University – $225,000