Bolstering Rural Co-op Economies
Through a Rural Cooperative Development Grant, CDF will improve economic conditions - directly and in partnership with existing co-op development organizations and new state/regional initiatives to:
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Create jobs in rural America through new or expanded co-op enterprises;
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Equip the rural workforce of today and tomorrow with skills to start, sustain, and grow cooperative enterprises; and
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Provide context in which co-ops can grow through mutually beneficial economic relationships to meet the needs of American farmers and communities.
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To help achieve those goals, CDF will implement two programs that benefit rural co-op economies. This work is supported by the Rural Cooperative Development Grant program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
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Who may apply: Cooperative development organizations that serve rural communities
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Not eligible: Existing CDF sub-awardees
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How to apply: Submit an application through Submittable. We will begin accepting applications in January 2026.
Preferred Vendor Program
CDF will expand access to specialized, community-informed technical assistance for rural cooperatives and groups exploring cooperative formation that can be directed in response to emerging momentum and opportunity throughout the year. CDF will identify, vet, and contract with trusted development practitioners who possess both technical expertise and long-standing ties to rural communities.
Co-op Developer Scholarships
About the Scholarship
These scholarships support cooperative developers that serve rural communities in accessing professional development opportunities that strengthen their skills, improve their practice, and contribute to the cooperative development field. Scholarships may be used for conferences, trainings, workshops, and other relevant learning opportunities that strengthen the applicant's ability to meet the needs of rural co-ops and communities. Applications due at 11:59pm ET on February 27.
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Who Should Apply
Cooperative Development Centers can apply on behalf of either emerging or established cooperative developers who:
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Work in cooperative development
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Support cooperatives in rural communities
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Seek professional development relevant to their cooperative work
Cooperative development centers that are a part of CDF's Rural Cooperative Development Grant are not eligible.
What the Scholarship Covers
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Registration or training fees
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Travel and lodging (when applicable)
A maximum of $2,500 will be awarded to each individual. Please request only what you need.