Grants of up to $10 million will soon be available for each of Maryland’s rural regional councils.

The funding comes from Maryland’s new $50 million Rural Maryland Economic Development Fund, which will be used to boost economic development, job creation, and private sector investment throughout the state, as well as workforce development and attraction for employers.

Each of the five rural regional councils – representing the Upper, Mid and Lower Eastern Shore, Southern Maryland, and Western Maryland – can apply for the funding through the Maryland Department of Commerce, with an outline on how they plan to utilize the program. Eligible uses include developing infrastructure for broadband; expansion of businesses; supporting the manufacturing industry; and more.

Counties that will benefit from the grant funds include Allegany, Calvert, Caroline, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Garrett, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, St. Mary’s, Talbot, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester. Regional projects that foster collaboration between the counties are encouraged.

Read the full announcement