GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) -- Two local businesses in Grand Traverse County played host to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Rural Development on Tuesday.

The Development provides loans and grants to businesses and organizations focused in creating jobs, improving quality of life and expanding economic opportunities in rural areas.

USDA representatives toured two Traverse City recipients, Cherry Republic and Common Grounds.

During her visit, undersecretary Xochitl Torres-Small visited both places to see how those grants and loans are being used.

"I'm really enjoying the opportunity to learn from Traverse City, to feel the dedication to community, to feel the entrepreneurial spirit that's here,” Torres-Small said. “Whether it's solving challenges like housing and childcare and figure out how rural development can be a stronger partner."

Common grounds received an $8 million loan that is going towards the construction of a new building.

While Cherry Republic got a $135,000 grant that went towards buying more equipment for their growing fulfillment center.