§2009dd–1. Definitions
In this subchapter:
(1) Benchmark
The term "benchmark" means an annual set of strategies and goals of a Regional Board established for the purpose of measuring performance in meeting the regional plan of the Regional Board.
(2) Conference
The term "Conference" means the National Conference on Rural America conducted under section 2009dd–7 of this title.
(3) Eligible area
(A) In general
The term "eligible area" means a nonmetropolitan county (as defined by the Secretary) that has a population of 50,000 inhabitants or less.
(B) Inclusion
(i) In general
Subject to clause (ii), the term "eligible area" includes an unincorporated or other area of a county that has a population of more than 50,000 inhabitants if the unincorporated area or other area is adjacent to an eligible rural area described in subparagraph (A).
(ii) Participation
An area described in clause (i) may be represented on a Regional Board.
(C) Exclusion
The term "eligible area" does not include any area designated by the Secretary as a rural empowerment zone or rural enterprise community.
(4) Innovation grant
The term "innovation grant" means an innovation grant made by the National Board to a Regional Board under section 2009dd–6 of this title.
(5) National Board
The term "National Board" means the National Board on Rural America established under section 2009dd–3(a) of this title.
(6) National plan
The term "national plan" means a national strategic investment plan of the National Board developed under section 2009dd–3(d)(3) of this title.
(7) Planning grant
The term "planning grant" means a regional strategic investment planning grant made by the National Board to a Regional Board under section 2009dd–5 of this title.
(8) Program
The term "program" means the rural strategic investment program established under this subchapter.
(9) Region
The term "region" means the eligible areas that-
(A) are under the jurisdiction of a Regional Board; and
(B) meet criteria established by the National Board not later than 1 year after May 13, 2002.
(10) Regional Board
The term "Regional Board" means a Regional Investment Board certified under section 2009dd–2(a) of this title.
(11) Regional plan
The term "regional plan" means a regional strategic investment plan of a Regional Board developed under section 2009dd–2(b)(3)(B) of this title.
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