Rural Economic Development Initiative Grant Program Passes Senate!

Sen. Kerry Donovan's bipartisan bill stimulates job creation and rural growth

Denver, CO – Big news: The REDI grant program passed the Senate with bipartisan support today. SB-002 directs REDI grant money towards applicants like small businesses, beginning farmers and local governments to support job creation in rural communities. Grant requests have exceeded the programs budget each year, illustrating its success and the increased need to stimulate rural economies through job creation.

"I am proud that this bill passed today with bipartisan support," said bill sponsor Sen. Kerry Donovan (Vail). "This sends a clear message that the Senate wants to invest in rural Colorado and support job creation that will build economic opportunity in rural communities for years to come."

REDI targets rural counties with populations of 50,000 residents or smaller and will create new jobs in rural Colorado. The Department of Local Affairs, in conjunction with the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, oversee the allocation of grant funds.

REDI is a program that was established in 2013-2014 as a response to closed correctional facilities and job loss in rural Colorado. SB20-002 strengthens the REDI grant program and promotes job creation in rural economies for a sustainable economic future.