The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced the launch of the Biden administration's Rural Partners Network.
Led by USDA, the network will help rural communities access government resources and funding to create jobs, build infrastructure and support long-term economic stability.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The Rural Partners Network will help communities get funding for investments that create long-lasting benefits for their communities, especially those that have been overlooked in the past."
The Rural Partners Network is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between federal agencies and local leaders and residents. The network is focused on improving social and economic well-being bolstered by existing local partnerships and assets, according to USDA.
The network will launch in selected communities in Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, as well as certain Tribes within Arizona. Community networks within these states will receive individualized support with the expertise to navigate federal programs, build relationships and identify additional resources to promote community-driven solutions.