Resource Directory

Rural Economic Development

RESOURCES AND GRANTS FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES

Whether you’re an individual, a business or a community organization, you can use the directory below to search a vast library of resources, tools and services. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), its economic development partners and other organizations around the state offer a range of resources on all aspects of economic well-being, from childcare and education to businesses and housing. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Reach out to us directly, we want to help.

Search the Directory

  • Topic of interest

  • Resource type

  • Freight Railroad Infrastructure Improvement Program

    Wisconsin Department of Transportation

    Transportation

    The Freight Railroad Infrastructure Improvement Program (FRIIP) is a competitive loan program intended to fund construction of industry railroad connections to the national railroad system.

  • GATHER Food Sovereignty Grants

    First Nations Development Institute

    Native Peoples

    These grants support work that contributes to building a national movement that will fulfill a vision of Native food systems that are self-directed, well-resourced and supported by community policies and systems.

  • General Transportation Aids

    Wisconsin Department of Transportation

    Transportation

    GTAs provide local governments with a partial reimbursement of funds to offset the cost of county and municipal road construction, maintenance, traffic, and police costs.

  • Geothermal Heat Pumps Tax Credit

    U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

    Energy, Sustainability

    Residential Clean Energy Tax Credits are available, with specific amounts available for prescribed periods.

  • Getting Started with Your Food or Farm Business Video Series

    University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension

    This weekly video series will give you the essential strategies when developing a business plan.

  • Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change

    Wisconsin Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy

    Sustainability

    The Task Force on Climate Change will advise and assist the governor in developing a strategy to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change for the benefit of all Wisconsin communities.

  • Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program

    U.S Department of Transportation

    Sustainability, Transportation, Workforce

    The Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive Program makes federal resources available to states and direct recipients to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities.

  • Green Tier

    Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

    Energy, Forestry & Paper, Other, Sustainability, Transportation, Workforce

    Green Tier recognizes businesses that go above and beyond environmental regulations and works with you to acknowledge your commitment to continual environmental improvement. We look forward to working together to enhance your productivity, cut your costs and strengthen the health of your community. Dynamic, forward-thinking businesses, communities and associations are encouraged to apply.

  • Green Tier Legacy Communities

    Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

    Business, Energy, Parks & Outdoor Recreation, Sustainability, Tourism, Transportation

    Green Tier Legacy Communities Charter focuses on building sustainable and resilient communities. Those that participate benefit from the knowledge and experiences of fellow members. This shared, relevant information allows members to leap-frog technology or implement tried and true practices that stretch local resources.

  • Grid Resilience State/Tribal Formula Grant Program

    U.S. Department of Energy

    Energy, Other, Sustainability

    The Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants program is designed to strengthen and modernize America’s power grid against natural disasters that are exacerbated by the climate crisis.

  • Harbor Assistance Program

    Wisconsin Department of Transportation

    Transportation

    Wisconsin’s Legislature created the Harbor Assistance Program (HAP) to assist harbor communities along the Great Lakes and Mississippi River in maintaining and improving waterborne commerce.

  • Herd-Based Diagnostics Program

    Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP)

    Business

    The Herd-Based Diagnostics Program helps dairy herds of all sizes and management types. Available at no cost to participants, licensed veterinarians help producers investigate concerns with milk production, herd health, and more.