(Des Moines) Minden was among the eight recipients of the latest Rural Innovation Grants announced today by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). Awarded through the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa Initiative, the grants total $72,624 and will support projects designed to enhance local services and promote economic development.
Minden Countryside Market was awarded $25,000 for a drive thru window that will offer faster, more convenient grocery pickup.
The Rural Innovation Grant program supports creative solutions in Iowa towns with fewer than 20,000 residents and not near larger cities. This round prioritized projects by small grocery stores, food producers, and businesses expanding to new markets. Administered by the IEDA’s Center for Rural Revitalization, the next grant round opened July 1 and focuses on rural housing. Applications are due by 4 p.m. CDT on Aug. 29. Learn more at opportunityiowa.gov or apply at IowaGrants.gov.
