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Executive Order 2020-107 established Michigan Workforce Development Board
MiSTEM convenes a statewide network of leaders in education, business and local communities to empower the next generation of innovators.
The Rural Development Fund Board, housed in the Office of Rural Prosperity, has oversight of the Rural Development Fund. The Board is charged with advising the Office on how to distribute tax revenue collected from mines to improve and strengthen local communities. Director is a voting member and makes final decision on projects (Public Act 411 of 2012).
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formerly MI Compensation Appellate Commission
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June 25, 2026
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP) is seeking public comment on guidelines for the Rural Development Fund, a grant program that supports projects aimed at strengthening land-based industries in rural communities through investments in infrastructure, workforce development, business growth and local capacity. Public input will help shape future funding priorities and ensure the program responds to the needs, challenges and opportunities rural communities are identifying across the state.
"The Rural Development Fund is an important tool for helping rural communities turn local priorities into real projects that strengthen their economies and improve quality of life,” said Sarah Lucas, director of the Office of Rural Prosperity. “As part of our larger effort to support rural communities, we value local input to help shape future funding priorities and ensure state resources respond to the needs, challenges and opportunities rural communities are identifying on the ground.”
The Rural Development Fund provides grants to support projects that benefit rural communities and promote long-term economic opportunity. Eligible projects may include efforts related to infrastructure, workforce development, business development and other activities that support rural community and economic development.
Public comment can be submitted by emailing LEO-ORP@michigan.gov from June 26-July 31, 2026, at 5 p.m. with the subject line: Rural Development Public Comment. The input received will be considered when developing final grant guidelines for the 2027 program.
Following the public comment period, LEO and the Office of Rural Prosperity will review feedback and finalize program guidelines for the next Rural Development Fund grant cycle.
Visit the Rural Development website for more information on Rural Development Fund grants and to review the 2026 guidelines.
Media Contact:
Chelsea Wuth