TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) announced that the application cycle is now open for eligible rural communities to apply for $7.5 million in funding through the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF) grant program. This program provides reimbursement grants to facilitate the planning, preparing, and financing of infrastructure projects in rural communities, which will encourage job creation, capital investment, and the strengthening and diversification of rural economies.

“This funding provides another resource for Florida’s rural communities to develop and enhance the infrastructure they need to attract capital investment, create jobs, and strengthen their economic resiliency,” said Dane Eagle, Secretary of the Department of Economic Opportunity. “The Department continues to work closely with our rural community partners to help them access the tools and resources they need to improve their local economies.”

Funding in the amount of $2.5 million is available to rural communities statewide. Eligible applicants are local governments within an area designated as a Rural Area of Opportunity, or a rural county or community, pursuant to section 288.0656, Florida Statutes.

Additionally, $5 million is available through the Florida Panhandle Specific Appropriation. Eligible applicants are local governments of Calhoun, Gadsden, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, and Washington counties, and all municipalities within their boundaries. 

DEO will hold a webinar on December 2, 2021, at 10 a.m., Eastern Time, to provide technical assistance and an overview of the process to complete and submit the application. To be considered for funding, applications must be submitted by January 7, 2022.

For more information about the RIF program, the application webinar, and how to apply, please visit DEO’s website at www.FloridaJobs.org/RIF. 

About DEO

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity combines the state’s economic, workforce and community development efforts, expediting economic development projects to fuel job creation in competitive communities and promote economic resiliency. For more information, including valuable resources for employers and job seekers, please visit www.FloridaJobs.org.

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