MONTPELIER, Vermont, September 23, 2021 – Today, the Regional Northern Boundary Commission (NBRC) and the United States Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DR) announced $ 3 million in funding for projects for economic development in Maine, New Hampshire, New York State and Vermont. The NBRC received funding in 2019, 2020 and 2021 for these awards, reinforcing the strategic goals of both agencies.
Cheryl Ducharme, Acting State Director for RD in Vermont and New Hampshire, was pleased to announce the 2021 award. “The recipients chosen this year are undisputed drivers of economic development in their respective regions,” he said. she declared. “The NBRC is a critical partner in our mission to create better lives for rural Americans through business and community development, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with them.”
“This year’s list of NBRC-USDA projects demonstrates the commitment of both agencies to continue critical technical assistance, outdoor recreation, and workforce development efforts that will benefit communities across the four states. of the NBRC, ”said NBRC Executive Director Rich Grogan.
The NBRC award will support the following efforts in its four-state region:
– Town of Carrabassett Valley (ME): $ 300,000
The project will build approximately 5.5 miles of cycle paths in the area, expanding opportunities for quality outdoor recreation and creating new connections for residents and tourists to the area. The increased activity will provide local economies with opportunities for employee and business development.
– University of New Hampshire (NH): $ 350,000
This initiative will increase business advisory capacity in Coos, Carroll and Sullivan counties. Over 3 years, planners expect 1,800-2,000 hours of consulting with 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
The funds will be used to build and renovate an educational and workforce development facility in Malta, New York. With more academic and workforce programs available, more students and workers will be trained and prepared for jobs, which will benefit Saratoga County and surrounding municipalities.
– Retirement farm (VT): $ 350,000
Restoring the North Barn at Retreat Farm to a year-round event location will meet a vital need for a large indoor gathering space. This evocative space will serve residents and attract more tourists, thus increasing spending and jobs. The funding will help strengthen the social bonds of families and communities by bringing people together and boosting the economic vitality of the Brattleboro area.
– 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 work of the Overseas Economy Council in 2021 builds on the work of the previous two years by leveraging foundational marketing projects and expanding their benefits to other 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 aid supports the improvement of infrastructure; Business development; lodging; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high speed internet access in rural, tribal and very poor areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you would like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
About the Regional Commission for the Northern Frontier
Established in 2008, the Northern Boundary Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to help alleviate economic distress and encourage job creation in the private sector in Maine, New Hampshire, New York State and Vermont. During its twelve years of existence, the Commission has awarded 287 grants totaling more than $ 72 million in the four states through its main Grants Program for Economic Development and Infrastructure (EID) and other special initiatives. Subscribe here to receive news and updates from the NBRC.
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