The Whitley County Economic Development Corporation is the recipient of a $60,000 USDA Rural Development Business Enterprise Grant. USDA-Rural Development State Director Phillip Lehmkuhler will join the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation today to make the public announcement.

The RBEG program helps to finance and facilitate the development of new and existing businesses in rural America. Funds can be used for start-up and working capital loans, building and plant renovations, transportation improvements, project planning and other business needs. The grant is designed to provide a revolving loan fund as an incentive for business expansion, job retention and creation, and private investment in rural areas of Indiana.

The funds from the RBEG will be used to provide technical assistance to small and emerging businesses within Whitley County through the EDC’s Small Business and Entrepreneurship Initiative. Program details will be announced at the media briefing.