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If you would like more information regarding any of the stories we share, or if you have any suggestions, please feel free to contact Dusty Schnieders schniedersd@umsystem.edu and/or Emily Lucas lucasem@umsystem.edu.
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| Agriculture News |
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USDA and the U.S. Small Business Administration Strengthen Partnership to Create Jobs and Economic Growth in Rural America
USDA – November 20, 2023
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced today that USDA is strengthening its longstanding partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to create jobs and expand access to new and better market opportunities for people in rural America. Through a memorandum of understanding (MOU), USDA and SBA are committing to increase investments in small and underserved communities to help grow the rural economy and create good-paying jobs for people nationwide. The agencies are also committing to expand opportunities for rural technical assistance providers, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and small business owners. They will also provide resources to help rural businesses compete in both domestic and international markets.
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| Defense News |
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Inside DARPA’s search for an 'autonomous scientist' to support its researchers
NextGov – November 20, 2023
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is on the hunt for foundational AI models that can aid in the scientific discovery process. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency issued an opportunity earlier this month intended to solicit AI research concepts from industry that can do for science what the technology is already beginning to demonstrate in computing.
A growing global footprint for China’s space program worries Pentagon
The Washington Post – November 21, 2023
The Pentagon is increasingly concerned that China’s growing network of facilities in Latin America and Antarctica for its civilian space and satellite programs has defense capabilities. U.S. officials say the ground stations — which allow countries to maintain uninterrupted communication with satellites and other space vehicles — have the potential to expand Beijing’s global military surveillance network in the southern hemisphere and areas close to the United States.
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| Federal News |
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Inflation Reduction Act Community Change Grants Program
United States Environmental Protection Agency
EPA is accepting applications on a rolling basis until November 21, 2024 for $2 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funding available to support community-driven projects that build capacity for communities to tackle environmental and climate justice challenges, strengthen their climate resilience, and advance clean energy. EPA Community Change Grants Notice of Funding Opportunity here.
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