Iowa has consistently been a leader in securing funds from the USDA Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant (REDL&G) program to support projects statewide.

Since the program’s inception in 1989, IADG member electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, and independent telecommunications companies have secured over 440 loan and grant awards, totaling over $200 million in support. These awards translate into $1.29 billion in capital investment to spur business and community development projects and the creation and retention of over 22,400 jobs.

After a record-setting $28.6 million secured by IADG rural utility partners in 2022, the group has already surpassed that amount with an impressive $40 million secured in the first three quarters of 2023. IADG writes and submits the grant applications on behalf of its rural utility partners and is expecting additional awarded projects to be announced before the end of the year.

“The partnerships in place to foster rural growth are truly commendable,” remarked Theresa Greenfield, USDA Rural Development State Director in Iowa. “From rural utility providers identifying and championing impactful projects to the grant writing and technical assistance offered by IADG, along with the active participation of USDA Iowa staff, I take great pride in acknowledging everyone’s contributions to yet another remarkable year through the REDL&G program.”