5 Maine companies receive grants from USDA Rural Development

Five Maine companies received $1.2 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Development program. John Butera, USDA Rural Development's Maine state director, made the announcement last week while on a visit to Mere Point Oyster Co. in Brunswick. The grants were made under the value-added producer program. “These investments are real-world examples of the Trump Administration’s commitment to strengthening farms and agricultural businesses right here in Maine,” said Butera. “These Rural Development investments in five Maine businesses, including Mere Point Oyster Co., will strengthen their competitiveness and directly support the economic vitality of rural Maine.” The USDA Rural Development Value-Added Producer Grant program helps agricultural producers enter into value-added activities related to the processing and marketing of new products. The program helps generate new products, create and expand marketing opportunities and increase producer income. The Maine grants were made in Cumberland, Kennebec and Waldo counties. The grants Mere Point Oyster Co., in Brunswick (Cumberland County), received $207,805 to assist with working capital to enhance processing, expand marketing efforts and cover hired labor costs. Calyx Farm LLC, in Morrill (Waldo County), received $248,886 to strengthen the long-term viability of its organic vegetable operation. Working capital grant funds will be used to expand marketing efforts, cover hired labor costs and purchase essential packaging materials and supplies. Kate Hall, doing business as Graze LLC, in Northport (Waldo County), received $250,000 to assist with working capital to enhance the processing, marketing and sales of blended juice products. Grant funds will be used for supplies, labor and promotional efforts. Misty Brook Farm, in Albion (Kennebec County), received $250,000 to strengthen its organic milk and beef operations by providing working capital to boost efficiency, expand the customer base and increase revenue. Grant funds will support marketing efforts, labor costs, processing, packaging and essential supplies. Olde Haven Farm LLC, in Chelsea (Kennebec County), received $250,000 to expand processing, marketing, and sales of their pork and lamb artisan sausages. The project will focus on wholesale accounts and expanding accounts outside of Maine and will create one job.