MORGANTOWN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development West Virginia State Director, Ryan Thorn on Friday announced a $4.5 million investment in loans and grant funding to small businesses and agricultural producers in 24 areas through the Rural Energy for America Program.
“West Virginia small business and agricultural producers are the backbone of our local economies. When we invest in our small business owners and ag producers we are investing in a brighter and prosperous future for our rural communities,” Thorn said. “These investments will allow these businesses to make their operations more efficient and realize millions of dollars of energy savings – savings they can reinvest back into their businesses, back into their employees, and communities.”
The funding will allow for agricultural producers and small businesses to invest in energy efficient equipment as well as renewable energy systems, paving the way for lower energy-related costs and enhanced capacity for operations.
Among the investments announced as part of the overall $4.5 million investment are J.H. Fletcher & Co. of Cabell County, Winterplace Ski Resort in Raleigh County, South Branch Inn in Raleigh County, and Mountain Linen Services of Pocahontas County.
USDA works to support improvements in infrastructure, housing, development of business, public health care and safety, community facilities, and more throughout rural and high-poverty areas. USDA also works to provide access to high-speed internet for these areas.
Additional information on these investments, including specifics on where the investments are making an impact in rural areas throughout the nation, visit the Rural Data Gateway at the USDA website.
