Rural Development Director visits Grant County

MARION, INDIANA October 22, 2020 – US Department of Agriculture Rural Development Director Michael Dora visited Grant County. With visits to MonDak Portables in Fairmount, Eastern Indiana Wifi in Upland, and Payne’s Restaurant in Gas City, Director Dora was able to see how Grant County businesses have used and benefited from rural development grants and loans.

MonDak Portables, headquartered in North Dakota, opened a location in Fairmount due to its centralized location. Specializing in portable comfort facilities for special events, natural disasters, or construction projects, MonDak sends trailers all over the country. Rick Rogers, general manager of MonDak, received a revolving loan to offset covid-19 effects. MonDak Portables

Eastern Indiana Wifi, owned by Randy and Greg Ballinger, provides fiber wifi service to businesses like Eastbrook School Corporation, Taylor University, and Avis Industrial as well as throughout the local area. They have benefitted from the revolving loan fund many times over the years. Recently used the funds to expand their coverage area. Eastern Indiana WiFi

Finally, Payne’s Restaurant at the I-69 exit in Gas City, is a British restaurant. Serving everything from salads to desserts, they are known for their Fish and Chips. It is a local favorite. Owner, Stephen Payne, used the revolving loan fund for covid-19 related expenses. Payne's Restaurant

Director Dora expressed his appreciation to the three businesses that hosted him and said he enjoyed his time in Grant County. “The best part of my visit was our lunch hour at Payne’s Restaurant” Dora commented. To learn more about USDA Rural Development visit: Rural Development

For more about the Revolving Loan Fund or other business assistance programs in Grant County, visit: GCEGC Revolving Loan Fund