Application deadline set Oct. 1 for rural projects

The Governor's Office of Economic Development is asking rural counties to submit applications for projects to develop small-business incubators or infrastructure needed for local economic development.

Funding is through the Business Development for Disadvantaged Rural Communities Grant Program created through legislation passed during the general session this year.

Based on recommendations from the Governor's Rural Partnership Board, projects to develop small-business incubators will have the highest priority.

A total of $250,000 is available for grants this year. Though small-business incubators will have the highest priority, applications for infrastructure such as telecommunications lines, roads, water lines and facilities are also eligible for consideration.

The application deadline is Oct. 1. Applications must be submitted online using a form available at rural.utah.gov. A pre-application conference is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sept. 7 at 324 S. State, Suite 500.