USDA funding is available to help communities strengthen their readiness for bio-based investment and economic development.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program can provide funding to support communities and organizations pursuing a BDO Zone Rating.
A BDO Zone Rating is an internationally recognized, standards-based technical risk assessment of a region’s feedstock, supply chain, and infrastructure risk with respect to the development potential for new biofuel and biomanufacturing facilities. Investment-grade ratings are force multipliers for attracting new manufacturing plants to the areas where they are most likely to succeed, driving investment and creating jobs.
Right now, more than $10 billion in private capital is being raised for projects located in BDO Zones, and more than 50 communities across more than 25 states have already received USDA RBDG funding to support BDO Zone Ratings.
NADO members have successfully utilized this USDA funding stream in the past, including the Region 9 Economic Development District in Southwest Colorado and the Southeast Conference in Alaska. Learn more about their BDO Zone Ratings here:
Southwest Colorado BDO Zone | Prince of Wales Island, Alaska BDO Zone
No Cost Grant Writing Support Available
Ecostrat’s full-service grant writing team can prepare and submit your application, with grant writing services provided at no cost. This support helps reduce staff workload and improve the likelihood of a successful application.
Funding is competitive and timelines are limited. Communities interested in exploring eligibility are encouraged to begin the process early.
Communities and economic development organizations interested in learning how USDA funding can support a BDO Zone Rating in their region are encouraged to apply and connect with our team:
Ryan Magwood
Head of Business Development, BDO Zone Initiative
[email protected]
Learn more about the BDO Zone Initiative and USDA funding opportunities at
www.bdozone.org
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
This webinar featured RDO and community leaders who showcased the impact and interest in bioeconomic development and BDO Zones. The BDO Zone initiative and Ecostrat are active partners supporting NADO and engaging with RDOs across the country to assist in building stronger economies.
Speakers: