The Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service awarded a Cooperative Agreement worth $128,670.69 to Foundation For A Strong Maine Economy (doing business as Focusmaine) on March 1, 2026, under the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program (CFDA 10.175).
The award request originated from the Riverside County Office of Economic Development in partnership with the Blythe Chamber of Commerce to improve economic conditions for agricultural producers in the underserved communities of Blythe and Palo Verde. The period of performance runs from March 1, 2026 through February 29, 2028. Work is performed in Maine.
The Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program supports development, coordination, and expansion of local and regional food systems through direct producer-to-consumer markets and local food business enterprises to increase access to and availability of locally and regionally produced agricultural products. Awards under this program are for two or three years in length, with recipients eligible to request a one-year extension to complete project objectives and goals.