Nearly $1 billion is heading to rural America to expand new market opportunities

USDA announced nearly $1 billion will be spent to create new and better market opportunities in rural America.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says $981 million will be used to expand essential services in 47 states, and says the money will help keep resources and money made, by rural Americans, in their communities through affordable financing options and technical assistance.

The Department says it could help rural Americans start new businesses while allowing other operations to grow. They are hopeful the money will help people who have historically lacked access to critical resources and financing.

Agriculture Shows
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
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Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.
Host Ben Bailey hops in the tractor cab, giving farmers 10 minutes to answer as many questions and grab as much cash as they can for their local FFA chapter.