The city of Auburn is offering up to $5,000 to existing or start-up commercial farming operations that qualify. A total of $50,000 comes from the American Rescue Plan, and the city will select about 10 recipients, depending on the total amount requested. UMaine Cooperative Extension photo

AUBURN — The city’s Business & Community Development team is rolling out its new Commercial Agriculture Incentive Program.

Iinitiated and approved by the City Council, it will provide up to $5,000 in forgivable loans to help new or existing agriculture operations with starting or expanding their local food production.

A total of $50,000 in funding comes from the American Rescue Plan, and the city will select about 10 recipients, depending on the total amount requested. The money can be used to buy or upgrade equipment, purchase supplies, or expand labor as necessary to improve the selection of healthy food offerings or create greater access to local produce.

This initiative aligns with city’s Comprehensive Plan goal to “ensure that fresh, local food is equitably accessible to everyone regardless of income or geography” by “supporting practices that facilitate access to healthy food in residential settings.”

Applications will be accepted until Aug. 1 or until funds are exhausted. Download the application: https://www.auburnmaine.gov/pages/business/business-services

Detailed information on eligibility and instructions on how to apply can also be found on the city’s website.

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