United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) unveiled a resource guide (PDF, 2.5 MB) to help rural community leaders start and expand employment opportunities and access resources to train, recruit and create a sustainable rural workforce..
The resource guide outlines programs and services available at USDA and other federal agencies that support workforce development in rural communities. It helps community leaders and other local entities access resources more easily to create jobs, train talent, expand educational opportunities and provide technical assistance.
A resource matrix organizes USDA funding opportunities by four key assistance types:
- Workforce development planning;
- Infrastructure and equipment financing;
- Industry and employer engagement, entrepreneurship and local business development; and,
- Education, training and apprenticeship.
The guide also features examples of how customers have used USDA programs to support each assistance type. It includes recommendations on how rural leaders can replicate this assistance in their communities.
Additional resources to support rural workforce development are available at www.rd.usda.gov/rwin.
To learn more about investment resources for rural areas, contact the nearest USDA Rural Development state office.