WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Congressman Dan Boren announced the award of a $500,000 grant to Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma, Inc. The Job Opportunities for Low-Income Individuals (JOLI) program grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will help create self-employment and small businesses in areas such as childcare, cosmetology, food and agriculture, and other sectors. REI will use the funds for the implementation of the Entrepreneurship Opportunities for Low-Income Oklahomans Project.

“I am pleased this economic development funding is coming to rural Oklahoma,” Boren, D-Okla., said. “These grants will help REI continue to provide the training and business development services that are so crucial to breaking the cycle of poverty for these families.”

Through the provision of general business training, industry specific training, case management and access to capital, the 80-hour curriculum for low-income individuals will culminate with a complete business plan for each participant. Project clients will then be eligible to participate in a revolving loan fund, created by a portion of the JOLI grant funds, to assist with developing the new businesses.

“We are very excited about receiving the JOLI award,” said Tom Seth Smith, REI president and chief executive officer.

REI’s Entrepreneurship Opportunities for Low-Income Oklahomans Project will promote economic development and will guide clients toward self-sufficiency. REI has created a partnership agreement with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program for client referral. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Community Services awards approximately $5.5 million JOLI grants each year.