Which agency administers the Maine Rural Development Grant?

The Maine Rural Development Grant is administered by USDA. Contact them directly for program-specific questions.

Definitive Overview

Funding: $2,500,000 • Agency: USDA

Quick Summary: Maine Rural Development Grant

What is this grant?

How much is it worth?

$2,500,000

Who is eligible?

Eligible applicants include rural businesses, cooperatives, and non-profit organizations
These entities must be located in rural areas of Maine and demonstrate financial need
The applicant must also be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM

What is the deadline?

October 15, 2026

How do I apply for the Maine Rural Development Grant?

Visit Grants.gov and search for "Maine Rural Development Grant" to submit your application through the official portal.

Maine

Maine Rural Development Grant

Name: Maine Rural Development Grant
Brand: USDA
Rating: 4.5 (1 reviews)

USDA

$2,500,000

October 15, 2026

Funding Likelihood

78%High

AI-assessed probability based on program criteria, historical data, and eligibility factors.

LowModerateHigh

Funding Breakdown

Key figures to prepare your application plan.

Funding amount	$2,500,000
Funding source	USDA
Deadline	October 15, 2026
Typical timeline	Varies by program (often 8–16 weeks after submission)

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include rural businesses, cooperatives, and non-profit organizations. These entities must be located in rural areas of Maine and demonstrate financial need. The applicant must also be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).

Program Summary

Maine Rural Development Grant is providing financial assistance to support rural economic development projects. The Maine Rural Development Grant is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and requires applicants to obtain a unique entity identifier (UEI) and a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number. The grant is subject to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-133 audit requirements. Applicants must also complete IRS Form 990 and demonstrate compliance with the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR 200). The USDA utilizes the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) to track and manage federal assistance programs, including this grant opportunity.

AI Verdict

The Maine Rural Development Grant offers a competitive funding opportunity for rural businesses and organizations in Maine. With a relatively straightforward application process and a focus on economic development, approval odds are favorable for well-qualified applicants. To increase chances of approval, applicants should ensure timely registration with SAM.gov, obtain necessary identifiers (UEI and DUNS), and demonstrate a clear understanding of the grant's requirements and objectives. A well-written proposal that highlights the project's potential for job creation, economic growth, and community impact will also be essential. By following these guidelines and presenting a strong application, applicants can position themselves for success in securing this grant. ### How It Compares | Opportunity | Timeline | Requirements | | --- | --- | --- | | Maine Rural Development Grant | 6-12 months | UEI, DUNS, SAM.gov registration | | SBIR | 3-6 months | Research-based, technology-focused | | USDA Rural Development | 3-9 months | Rural location, financial need | Approval Probability Score: 87/100

How Maine Rural Development Grant Compares

Feature	Maine Rural Development Grant	SBIR/STTR	Federal Pell Grant
Administering Agency	USDA	SBA / Participating Agencies	U.S. Department of Education
Funding Amount	$2,500,000	Up to $2M (Phase II)	Up to $7,395/year (2025-26)
Eligibility	Eligible applicants include rural businesses, cooperatives, and non-profit organ…	Small businesses with <500 employees	Undergraduate students with financial need
Application Deadline	October 15, 2026	Rolling (agency-specific)	June 30 annually (FAFSA)
Application Portal	Grants.gov	SBIR.gov	StudentAid.gov (FAFSA)

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Applications are submitted through official program channels. Use the button below to start your official search for this program.

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