Durbin Announces Rural Development Grants for Southern Illinois
GRANITE CITY – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $92,045 in federal funding to support rural development projects in southern Illinois. Today’s funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Business Development grant program, will help the Illinois Solar Energy Association and the City of West Frankfort foster small business growth in the region.
“This funding will help boost small and new businesses in southern Illinois,” said Durbin. “This means new opportunities for those looking to start a business and new jobs for southern Illinois residents. I will continue working to ensure that our state’s rural communities have access to the critical federal investments that drive economic growth.”
Under this announcement, the Illinois Solar Energy Association will receive $31,045 to support solar installation certification training for licensed electricians in southern Illinois. The City of West Frankfort will receive $61,000 for the installation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning for the city’s business incubator.