CLINTON, MO – The Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Commission (KBRPC) has been awarded a $25,314 Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development to advance its Regional Community Development Plan serving Bates, Benton, Cedar, Henry, Hickory, St. Clair, and Vernon counties.
The project builds upon the initial planning phase funded by the Truman Regional Community Development Corporation (TRCDC). Recognizing the importance of continued regional planning, TRCDC has committed an additional $20,000 in cash matching funds to support the project. Combined with the USDA award and other matching contributions, the total project investment is $46,596.
The Regional Community Development Plan will identify local needs and establish strategies for infrastructure improvements, community facilities, economic development, and community engagement. KBRPC will seek input from residents, local officials, businesses, and community stakeholders to develop county-specific priorities and actionable recommendations.
“Many of our rural communities have important projects they want to pursue, but limited staff, resources, and funding often make it difficult to move those projects forward,” said Ashley Swartz, KBRPC Executive Director. “This grant gives us an opportunity to work directly with our communities to identify priorities and develop practical strategies for addressing those needs. Our goal is to provide communities with a resource they can use to plan for the future, pursue funding opportunities, and turn their priorities into meaningful projects.”
Once complete, the plan will give local governments and community partners a resource to support grant applications, capital improvement planning, and future investment decisions. The project is expected to be completed by September 30, 2027.
USDA Rural Development’s Rural Business Development Grant program supports projects that promote economic development and strengthen small and emerging businesses in rural communities.
KBRPC serves seven counties in west-central Missouri, providing regional planning, economic and community development assistance, and grant administration services to local governments and community partners.
For more information, contact Ashley Swartz at (660) 885-3393 or ashley@kaysinger.com
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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