St. Johnsbury, VT. – Vermont Senator Peter Welch celebrated today as 1.3 million dollars worth of major investments were made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development toward Vermont communities.
The announcement includes funding from the USDA’s Rural Business Development Grants Program, which will help advance economic development across Vermont.
“Vermont’s farmers and small businesses are the backbone of our communities and economy. Federal investments that expand access to new wholesale markets are crucial to spurring job growth. This funding will support economic and community development in the Northeast Kingdom and across the state,” said Senator Peter Welch.
Jon Ramsay, Executive Director of The Center for an Agricultural Economy, said that USDA and CAE support will assist over 100 farms and food producers “who are working for the continued vitality of our working landscape, providing hundreds of jobs, and helping hold our rural communities together.
“In the aftermath of yet another flood in the NEK these funds are especially impactful as we continue recovery efforts and support producers as they navigate a new path forward for their business.”
Funding will also support several projects across the state, including a $99,657 investment into Vermont Farm to School, a $200,000 investment into Northeastern Vermont Development Association Inc.’s Business Technical Assistance Program, and more. The full list of projects and organizations receiving money can be found on Senator Welch’s website.
Story Written by Annabel Kusnitz, My Champlain Valley