Investments to benefit Maine, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire
BANGOR, ME., Sept. 23, 2021 – Today, the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) and U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (RD) announced $3 million in funding for economic-development projects in Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. The NBRC has received funding in 2019, 2020 and 2021 for these awards, reinforcing the strategic objectives of both agencies.
“This year’s slate of NBRC-USDA projects demonstrates both Agencies’ commitment to furthering crucial technical assistance, outdoor recreation, and workforce development efforts that will benefit communities in all four NBRC states,” said NBRC Executive Director Rich Grogan.
“Building vibrant and thriving communities is at the core of USDA Rural Development’s mission,” said USDA Rural Development Acting State Director Tommy R. Higgins. “Through our long-standing partnership with the Northern Border Regional Commission and in collaboration with Rural Development offices in the region, we are supporting the Recreation Economy, creating jobs, and providing opportunities for rural businesses.”
NBRC’s award will support the following efforts across its four-state region:
The project will construct approximately 5.5 miles of bicycle-specific trail in the region, expanding quality outdoor recreational opportunities and creating new connections for area residents and tourists. Increased activity will provide local economies opportunity for employee and business development.
- University of New Hampshire (NH): $350,000
This initiative will increase business advising capacity in Coos, Carroll, and Sullivan Counties. Over 3 years, planners anticipate 1800-2000 hours of advising to 250-300 small businesses, resulting in 15-20 new businesses, $7-$8 million in new capital formation and 150-200 jobs created or saved.
- Hudson Valley Community College Foundation (NY): $350,000
Funds will be used to construct and renovate an educational and workforce-development facility in Malta, NY. With more academic and workforce programs available, more students and workers will be trained and prepared for jobs as a result, benefitting Saratoga County and surrounding municipalities.
- Retreat Farm (VT): $350,000
Restoring Retreat Farm’s North Barn into a year-round event venue will fulfill a vital need for large indoor gathering space. This evocative space will serve residents and attract more tourists, increasing spending and jobs as a result. Funding will help strengthen the social bonds of families and communities by bringing people together and invigorating the economic vitality of the Brattleboro region.
- Outdoor Economy Council (ME, NH, NY, VT): $1,600,699
Policymakers in Maine, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont have identified the outdoor economy as a key driver of post-pandemic economic recovery. The Outdoor Economy Council work in 2021 builds upon the work of the previous two years by leveraging foundational marketing projects and extending their benefits to additional communities.
About USDA Rural Development
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
About the Northern Border Regional Commission
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage private sector job creation in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In its twelve-year history, the Commission has awarded 287 grants amounting to more than $72 Million across the four states through its primary Economic & Infrastructure Development (EID) grant program and other special initiatives. Subscribe here to receive NBRC news and updates.
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