Dairy Improvement Fund
This grant offers low-interest loans to Maine dairy farms for capital improvements that boost farm viability, productivity, and dairy production.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates: January 1, 1970: Submit completed DIF Loan Application and FAME Personal Financial Statement to FAME within 90 days of receiving a Letter of Eligibility from the Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry (DACF).
Funding Amounts: Loans up to $250,000; up to 90% of project cost if ≤$100,000, or 75% if >$100,000; 1% fixed interest rate.
Summary: Provides low-interest loans to Maine dairy businesses for capital improvements to enhance farm viability and dairy production.
Key Information: Application is a two-step process; eligibility must be confirmed by DACF before submitting loan application to FAME.
Description
The program offers direct loans to support capital improvements for Maine dairy farms and dairy enterprises. The goal is to enhance the viability, productivity, and marketability of dairy operations by financing the design, construction, or improvement of facilities and equipment. Eligible projects include upgrades to milking parlors, barns, feed storage, and other essential infrastructure. The fund is administered by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) in partnership with the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME).
