Applications for Rural Finance Development Corporation Grants Are Now Open!
Rural communities are the backbone of our state and Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) is proud to support the growth, success, and sustainability of its communities alongside the Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC).
For the ninth consecutive year, CCEC is teaming up with the RDFC to offer $3,000 in grants to businesses and organizations impacting rural North Dakota communities.
"Community is one of Cass County Electric Cooperative's core principles and we take great pride in investing in North Dakota's rural communities," CCEC Vice President of Member and Energy Services Paul Matthys says. "We're grateful for our relationship with the RDFC and thrilled for the opportunity to uplift rural organizations."
Grant Guidelines
Grant applicants must be located within CCEC's service territory and fall under one of the following categories:
Community Owned Businesses
Businesses that are locally owned and community-centered. Examples include local restaurants, grocery stores, small businesses, lodging, etc.
Community Facilities
Organizations that are integral to community members' safety, well-being, and quality of life. Examples include ambulance services, fire and rescue, community centers, healthcare facilities, etc.
Workforce Development
Organizations with training to meet the needs of current and future businesses and industries to maintain a sustainable, competitive economic environment. Examples include training programs, development opportunities, continuing education programs, etc.
Community-based Projects
Projects that benefit rural areas and lead to community betterment. Examples include youth organization projects, school projects, community development projects, etc.
Some Past Grant Recipients
- Hunter Fire Department
- Arthur Rural Fire Protection District
- Valley City Barnes County Rescue Squad
- Wimbledon Fire Protection District
- North Country Trail
- Sheyenne River Water Trail
Application Process
Organizations interested in applying for the 2024 RDFC Grant Program can complete the application here. Applications can be mailed to CCEC at 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200, Fargo, ND 58104.
All applications must be submitted by Friday, May 31, 2024. Please contact CCEC directly with any questions.
The Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) is a North Dakota non-profit finance and development corporation whose member-owners include the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC), the Broadband Association of North Dakota (BAND), and all of North Dakota's electric and telecommunications cooperatives. RDFC encourages economic diversification and community vitality by generating funding that supports sustainable asset building.