Rural grocers and food producers are among eight recipients of the latest Rural Innovation Grants announced by the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The grants, awarded through the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa Initiative, total $72,624 and will support projects designed to enhance local services and promote economic development. This round of funding prioritized independently owned grocery stores implementing technology upgrades or new service models; food producers investing in equipment, technology or regulatory support; and established businesses pursuing new markets through a partnership with the Colorado-based National Center for Economic Gardening. To view the full list of grant recipients, click here. The next round of Rural Innovation Grant funding is open for applications through Aug. 29 and focuses on increasing rural housing availability. For more information or to apply for the grant, click here.