Dem Govs Get It Done: Gov. Janet Mills Launches Grant Program to Help Maine Farmers and Food Processors Grow and Sell Healthy, Local Foods

In another major investment through her Maine Jobs and Recovery plan, Gov. Janet Mills is investing $20 million in federal funds to help Maine farmers and food processors upgrade aging infrastructure.

The funds will help increase the supply of locally-grown food, meet growing demand, and create and sustain jobs to strengthen Maine’s economy and enhance the state’s reputation for food excellence.

“When we grow and raise our own healthy food, in our own fields and waters, and sell it through our own shops to our own neighbors and friends — that’s a recipe for a healthy people and a healthy economy,” said Gov. Mills.

Preliminary results from a 2021 assessment found that ​​investments in processing infrastructure could create 1,367 Maine jobs, $321 million in annual statewide sales revenue, and $62 million in labor income per year.

DGA Senior Communications Advisor Christina Amestoy said: “By strengthening the local food economy, Gov. Janet Mills is delivering for Maine’s rural communities. This program will deliver increased economic opportunities by expanding access to affordable, healthy food for more Maine people. It’s just one more example of how Gov. Mills is strengthening Maine’s economy and moving Maine forward.”

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