R5DC Receives CoBank Rural Prosperity Grant

Region Five Development Commission (R5DC) has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the Rural Prosperity Grant Program, which fosters sustainable rural development and enhances regional collaboration by providing grant funding to designated rural development hubs.

In its inaugural year, CoBank has awarded $1.5 million in total unrestricted grants to eight organizations nationwide that are selected to serve as catalysts for positive change within their regions, representing nonprofit organizations, community development financial institutions, community foundations, and statewide rural organizations. These rural development hub organizations act as place-rooted entities that work across sectors to advance equity, health, and prosperity in rural communities.

“CoBank is excited to bring together our eight grantees for the inaugural year of this initiative to help ensure a thriving, prosperous and resilient future for rural America,” said Leslie Hagele, CoBank’s vice president of corporate social responsibility. “Through the Rural Prosperity Grant Program, we hope to amplify local voices while supporting community-led solutions to address the unique challenges many rural communities face.”

The program and its grantees will work together to address critical needs within rural communities, with key focus areas including entrepreneurship and business development, leadership and civic engagement, economic development and rural infrastructure, as well as rural health and well-being.

“This partnership with CoBank and the Aspen Institute gives rural regions like ours a unique opportunity to deepen our impact through shared insights, strategic planning, and systems change”, stated Cheryal Hills, R5DC’s executive director. “We’re honored to be part of a national cohort that will help elevate rural voices and bring lasting improvements to the people and places we serve.”

About CoBank

CoBank is a cooperative bank serving vital industries across rural America. The bank provides loans, leases, export financing and other financial services to agribusinesses and rural power, water and communications providers in all 50 states. The bank also provides wholesale loans and other financial services to affiliated Farm Credit associations serving more than 78,000 farmers, ranchers and other rural borrowers in 23 states around the country. CoBank is a member of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of banks and retail lending associations chartered to support the borrowing needs of U.S. agriculture, rural infrastructure and rural communities. Headquartered outside Denver, Colorado, CoBank serves customers from regional banking centers across the U.S. and also maintains an international representative office in Singapore.

About Region Five Development Commission

The Region Five Development Commission (R5DC) is a high-performing, regionally focused partner committed to enhancing the vitality and quality of life in Region 5 through resilient, collaborative, and inclusive approaches to regional community development, economic development, and transportation initiatives. R5DC is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Visit regionfive.org to learn more.