Transitioning to renewable energy or committing to significant energy efficiency improvements requires major investments of time and capital for a business. It helps to have a trusted advisor to navigate the process. In October 2023, USDA Rural Development in Maine announced three grant awards to help provide that kind of trusted advising in Maine. The program is called REAP TAG, and Sustaine (with a Maine office in Skowhegan) secured one of the grants. The investment enables the company to support agricultural producers and rural small businesses interested in applying to USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program.

"Sustaine has been thrilled to work with USDA Rural Development and the REAP grant applicants since fall 2023,” says company co-founder and CEO, Malcolm Smith. “We’re grateful to have moved eighteen rural small businesses and agricultural producers through the application process in Maine, including seven in historically disadvantaged communities. The REAP program makes many energy projects economically attractive that would otherwise be marginal. REAP is making clean energy projects happen!"

One recent success for Sustaine came right in the company’s Maine home base on the Kennebec River in Central Maine. The Bankery and Skowhegan Fleuriste, an artisan bakery, cake shop, and florist, secured a $35K REAP grant announced in July 2024. Brothers Mike DuBois and Matt DuBois and Matt’s husband Mike Hunt own the business. Much of the company’s structure is in a former bank building dating to 1864, a rock-solid structure with vintage charm. Thanks to technical assistance from Sustaine, soon the company will also boast a modern energy system.

"The USDA REAP grant investment in our business will allow our company to implement energy efficiency improvements by integrating rooftop solar,” says Matt DuBois. “This not only controls expenses but also plays a vital role in fostering sustainability, which enhances employee retention. Ultimately, investing in energy-efficient solutions and renewable energy sources enhances our overall sustainability efforts, contributing to a workplace culture that values environmental stewardship.”

Less than a year into implementing its REAP TAG award, Sustaine already has a strong track record helping Maine rural businesses and ag producers pursue clean energy options and the REAP grants to help fund them. Though the company works all over Maine, it will surely be a particular pleasure for the Sustaine team to see solar panels on a family-run business just blocks from the company’s Maine office. Congratulations to Sustaine for a successful launch to its REAP TAG work!