TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., June 13, 2024 — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) recently announced nine rural development grant winners in Grand Traverse County. These grants support capacity building, workforce training, sustainable business practices and infrastructure in rural areas. Two Grand Traverse-based companies are receiving nearly $200,000 in funds. Following the announcement of these grants, state Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) issued the following statement:
“I am excited to see these organizations in our community receive these grants to support capacity building, workforce training, sustainable business practices and infrastructure in rural areas. Both of these organizations do good work for our community, investing in and promoting local foods from our region.”
A $99,400 grant will go to OM4T LLC’s proven housing investment model, strengthening organizational capacity for the four-year-old small business and the five additional farms its workers support during the growing season. A $100,000 grant will go to NOBO MRKT LLC to support the organization’s efforts to accelerate regional food businesses and encourage market demand for local food.