BISMARCK, N.D. (KXNET)– In order to help ensure that future generations can continue to rely on ND’s ag and energy resources, rural co-ops will be getting more than $4 million in grants and loans.

The North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives recently received $200,000 in grant money, which will provide technical assistance for rural businesses throughout the state. Two more electric co-ops will also be using $2 million loans to support their projects. One will be supporting the Devils Lake Park Board, and another will aid a malt manufacturing facility in Menoken. Erin Oban, the state’s director of Rural Development, says this is a win-win for local producers and small businesses.

“There’s competition across the country for these dollars,” said Oban. “Because North Dakota has always had such a strong presence and leadership among cooperatives, we’re lucky that they’re really active in making sure that their communities have access to resources that they need — particularly through the federal government, and with these programs that are administered through USDA rural development.”

In order to learn more about rural growth and development projects in North Dakota, visit this page.