The Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP) has $4 million in grant funding available for projects dedicated to infrastructure, workforce and economic development in rural communities. Grants are available in two categories:
- Community and Business Development including grants of up to $100,000 for infrastructure, community facility, workforce and economic development, business development, community planning, and capacity building projects.
- Regional Collaboration including grants of up to $200,000 for projects that formalize regional partnerships and shared service models to build capacity and address multi-county needs through joint use of staff, expertise and systems.
Townships serving eligible rural areas are encouraged to apply. Detailed program guidelines are available via the ORP website, and letters of intent are due by Nov. 2 with a full application becoming available in December.