The Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service awarded Community Ventures Corporation, Inc. a $777,914 cooperative agreement on March 1, 2026, under the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (CFDA 10.175) to support Jason Esler, OBA Jason S Butcher Shop in improving facilities and purchasing equipment with intent to become a Maine State inspected facility participating in the Cooperative Interstate Shipment Program.
Community Ventures Corporation, Inc., a tax-exempt nonprofit community development corporation and certified Community Development Financial Institution headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, serves as the recipient. The award runs through February 28, 2029, with place of performance in Kentucky.
The Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program funds projects that develop, coordinate, and expand direct producer-to-consumer markets and local and regional food business enterprises to increase access to and availability of locally and regionally produced agricultural products. Awards under this program are structured for 2- or 3-year performance periods, with eligible applicants including agricultural businesses and cooperatives, community development corporations, and economic development entities.