GCSU grant seeks to grow rural business - The Union-Recorder

August 8, 2026 - 18:37

Georgia College & State University has secured over $700,000 in federal funding aimed at strengthening business development across the state, with a particular focus on rural communities. The grant, awarded through the U.S. Economic Development Administration, will support the university's efforts to provide technical assistance, entrepreneurship training, and market access for small businesses in underserved regions.

The funding will allow GCSU to expand its outreach programs, partnering with local chambers of commerce, economic development authorities, and community colleges. University officials say the initiative will target counties that have struggled with population decline and limited access to capital. The goal is to help existing businesses scale up and to encourage new ventures in sectors like agriculture technology, tourism, and advanced manufacturing.

Dr. Dana Hart, the project lead and a professor of management, said the grant is not just about money but about building lasting infrastructure. "We want to create a support network that stays in place long after the funding ends," she explained. The program will include workshops on digital marketing, financial planning, and supply chain management, all tailored to the specific needs of rural entrepreneurs.

Local leaders have welcomed the news, noting that many small towns lack the resources to hire dedicated economic development staff. The university plans to deploy graduate students and faculty advisors to work directly with business owners on site. A portion of the funds will also go toward creating an online resource hub with toolkits, case studies, and a directory of regional lenders.

The grant is part of a larger federal push to close the urban-rural economic gap. GCSU expects to begin rolling out services by early next year, with an initial cohort of 50 businesses across ten counties. The university is currently accepting applications from interested firms and will prioritize those in industries with high growth potential.