NCIC received funding from the USDA Rural Development Rural Business Development Grant Program. The purpose of this project is to provide funding for technical assistance to private small and emerging businesses in the North Country. These Funds are for use in NCIC service area in New Hampshire (Coos, Grafton, Carroll counties).

Frequently, businesses would benefit from technical assistance and professional consulting services but they cannot afford it on their own. Through this program NCIC can help. Examples of technical assistance include:

Energy Efficiency Audits/Design
Education & Training
Marketing & Sales Strategies
Engineering & Architectural Reports
Permitting Assistance
Finance & Accounting
Website Development

The business will be responsible for up to 30% of the total project cost and must provide those funds prior to commencement of the work by the consultant. Grant funds would pay the remaining 70%, upon satisfactory completion of the project. Grant Funds can be used for "small business" only - 50 or fewer employees and generally less than $1,000,000 gross profit (sales - cost of goods sold), according to USDA.

The business will need to complete an application, with assistance from NCIC as needed. NCIC will then review applications for completeness and approval. If an application is accepted and approved, NCIC will assist in developing a Request for Proposals, and help solicit proposals from qualified firms. The business will select a consultant and then NCIC will issue a purchase order for the work to begin.

The business owner should provide a business plan (if available), financial projections and current financial reports. All applications should clearly state how the grant funds will enable the business to improve, grow, and increase employment opportunities.

For further information, questions, or application - please contact:

Mike Welch
NCIC
51 Depot Square, Ste#2
St. Johnsbury, VT 05819
Tel: 802-748-5101, ext 2025

This project is funded by Northern Community Investment Corporation through a Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) from USDA Rural Development. NCIC is an equal opportunity employer, lender and provider. Funding from this program is provided without regard to sex, marital status, race, color religion, national origin, age physical or mental disability, receipt of income from public assistance or because the applicant has in good faith exercised any right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act.


Posted 2/27/16