IFB Rural Development Grant Program

The Rural Development Grant program is currently closed for applications.

Please check back in Fall 2026 for information about the next grant cycle.

See the Rural Development Grants help two Illinois communities

Knox County Rural Development Grant Testimonial

Madison County Rural Development Grant Testimonial

The Illinois Farm Bureau® (IFB) Rural Development Grant Program is designed to support rural development projects that will positively impact Farm Bureau® members and other rural Illinoisans.

Aligning with IFB policy and local government priorities, the program strives to elevate and place additional focus on rural development. It provides resources to help local communities and counties in rural Illinois successfully implement projects focused on supporting community and economic development as well as enhancing quality of life.

IFB is looking for projects that will meet an economic development or quality of life need in a community, county or rural area, and get residents excited about what is happening in their community. Examples could include projects that:

Focus on attracting businesses
Foster entrepreneurship
Improve infrastructure
Provide access to fresh foods
Increase healthcare access
Expand recreational opportunities
Increase available housing
Develop tourism
Enhance emergency services support (fire, emergency medical services, police)
Otherwise positively impact farmers and rural Illinoisans

Rural development requires a team effort. The grants will be awarded in conjunction with county Farm Bureaus® and their local partners. For more information about the program, please contact your local county Farm Bureau® or email RDgrants@ilfb.org.