Maine Farms for the Future grant period closes June 24
Photo / Maureen Milliken
The state is accepting applications for Maine Farms for Future spring grants, both Phase 1 and Phase 2.
The state is accepting applications for grants under the Maine Farms for the Future program, a competitive grant program that provides farms with business planning assistance and investment support.
Grants are for farm business owners to conduct research and strategic business planning on their “Ideas for Change” that might increase farm vitality, which is defined as, “an increase in long-term, maintainable, farm profitability and net worth," according to the state Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.
The program has a spring and fall application period. The spring period closed June 24, and applications must be submitted to the state Division of Procurement Services.
The Phase 1 grant allows farmers to research ideas for change on their farm and work with a certified business advisor, as well as other agricultural and professional service providers to develop an investment-grade business plan.
Phase 2 awards cash grants or low interest rates on a loan through the Agricultural Marketing Loan Fund to assist farmers who were selected for Phase 1 between January 1, 2000, and the current year, who have a current business plan with implementing their busines plan. In exchange for a Phase 2 grant, each farm must sign a Farmland Protection Agreement that's valid for seven years.
Information on the program may be found on the state Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources.
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