WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Benjamin L. Cardin (both D-Md.) today announced the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) has been awarded a $100,000 USDA Rural Development grant to help small and emerging business in Cecil, Kent and Queen Anne’s Counties enhance their internet, e-commerce and website capabilities.

“Forty years ago, interstate highways were crucial for economic growth in our rural areas, now it’s the information superhighway,” said Senator Mikulski. “I am proud that this funding will give businesses in Cecil, Kent and Queen Anne’s Counties the technology and training they need to continue to grow and prosper. I will keep fighting in the U.S. Senate for grants like this that support Maryland’s local businesses and communities.”

“Quality internet access and e-commerce help rural communities like Cecil, Kent and Queen Anne’s Counties thrive by connecting them to the world,” said Senator Cardin. “I am proud that federal investment in technology and training, through grants like this, help local businesses develop and grow.”

The grant will be used to develop and train micro-enterprise businesses in business operations, e-commerce and credit use, and provide internet access to more small and emerging businesses. Funding will also go towards continuing to assist 60 micro businesses, 12 public bodies, six trade/business associations and six cooperatives in website development, and towards maintaining and upgrading internet pages for BisNet, a site that allows community leaders to share business development concepts and strategies for rural communities.

The Rural Development grant program was created to improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. The program helps support essential services and infrastructure improvements, and promotes economic development by supporting loans to businesses through banks and community-managed lending pools.