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Rural Maryland Council

Rural Readiness

Applications Open: Rural Readiness Program Cohort 2026

The Rural Readiness Program is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This initiative supports community-based leaders and organizations working to advance place-based economic development and strengthen local capacity across rural Maryland.

Program Goals

  • Promote economic diversification and growth in rural communities
  • Strengthen community organizations and leadership capacity
  • Support innovative, community-driven projects
  • Foster partnerships among local stakeholders, businesses, and government agencies

Who Should Apply?
Individuals who live or work in one of Maryland’s designated rural areas and represent:

  • Community-based nonprofit organizations
  • Local government entities
  • Tribal organizations
  • Other community organizations serving rural Maryland

What We’re Looking For
Projects and programs that directly support:

  • Place-based economic development
  • Community capacity building
  • Leadership development
  • Organizational strengthening
  • Sustainable rural community growth

Preference will be given to applicants demonstrating collaboration with local businesses, educational institutions, and community partners.

Application Requirements
Submit a Letter of Interest and Resume.
Your Letter of Interest should include:

  • Project or Program Narrative
  • Community Impact Statement
  • Capacity Building Plan
  • Supporting Documentation (letters of support, endorsements, community data, etc.)

Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:

  • Project relevance and clarity
  • Long-term community impact
  • Feasibility and sustainability
  • Strength of partnerships
  • Innovation and alignment with rural development priorities

Program Information and Supporting Documents

Program Timeline
Application Deadline: August 1, 2026
Cohort Training: 6–8 sessions between September through December 2026, conducted primarily virtual with at least one required in-person session
Project Completion Period: Fiscal Year 2028 (July 2027–June 2028)

Cohort Training Sessions

  1. Program Orientation (1.5 hours)
    Introductions, program overview, schedule review, and MAERDAF/RMPIF funding overview.

  2. Grant Writing Workshop (1 hour)
    Led by a grant-writing consultant. May be open to a broader audience.

  3. Project Development & Technical Assistance (2 hours)
    Project/program worksheet review and individualized support.

  4. Business Planning Workshop (1 hour)
    Revenue generation, business models, and sustainability planning.

  5. Partnerships & Funding Resources (1.5 hours)
    Connect with funding partners and resource organizations, including state, federal, nonprofit, and lending agencies. 

  6. Project Readiness & Final Review (2 hours, In Person)
    Complete readiness assessments and finalize project plans.

Additional Support
One-on-one technical assistance and certification support will be available throughout the program as needed.

Apply Today
Letter of Interest and Resume must be submitted electronically at [email protected].

For questions or additional information on the program, please contact the RMC by email at [email protected] or by phone: (410) 841-5772