Rural Impact Fund Grant Program (RIF)

The Mississippi Rural Impact Fund Grant Program (RIF), administered by the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), is designed to assist and promote businesses and economic development in rural areas by providing grants to rural communities (Local Entities).

Eligibility

• Rural Community– a municipality with a population of 10,000 or less, according to the most recent federal decennial census, at the time the application is submitted by the municipality; or, a county with a population of 30,000 or less, according to the most recent federal decennial census, at the time the application is submitted by the county.
• Rural Business– means a new or existing business located or to be located in a rural community; or, a business or industry located or to be located within five miles of a rural community.

Eligible Projects

Eligible grant projects financed with RIF must be publicly owned. All contracts and purchases must be made in accordance with normal bid and purchase laws of a municipality or county. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:

• Construction, rehabilitation or repair of building;
• Sewer systems and transportation directly affecting the site of the proposed rural business; Sewer facilities;
• Acquisition of real property, development to real property, improvements to real property;
• Any other project approved by MDA

Eligible Projects must have a direct connection in creating jobs. All projects funded should create a minimum of ten (10) net new full-time jobs. The program intent is to stimulate job creation and economic development in rural communities in the State.

Funding

Funding is derived from the issuance of state general obligation bonds.

How to apply for this program

Initially, any local unit of government seeking funding should complete a proposal and submit to MDA to review for project viability under MDA guidelines.  

• Rural Impact Proposal in Word
• Project Information Package in Word
• Source and use of funds in Word  

Upon review of the proposal MDA may issue a letter inviting a RIF application. The letter will state the amount of RIF funds that can be applied for, and the requirements. An application will be made available to you at that time. 

Statute

Section 57-85-1, MS Code

For more information:
Community Services Division
Mississippi Rural Impact Program
Telephone: 601.359.3179
Fax: 601.359.3108
community@mississippi.org