Jobs and Economic Development
Investing in Our Infrastructure
Maine needs a strong infrastructure to compete on a national and global scale. I've been a strong supporter of fixing our infrastructure while expanding our technology, like bringing broadband Internet to rural areas of the state. I also believe we need a strong transportation network, which is why I have supported extending the Downeaster line to Brunswick and expanding options for alternative transportation.
Supporting Small Businesses
Small businesses truly are the backbone of Maine's economy and one thing I hear most from them is the need for capital. As a small business owner myself, I couldn't agree more. That's why I've supported expanding Small Business Administration loan programs, cutting unnecessary regulations, and have worked to connect our small businesses with larger federal contractors.
Brunswick Naval Air Station
The closing of Brunswick Naval Air Station marked the end of an era. But redevelopment of the site has presented an excellent opportunity to create new jobs for the area. I helped the local redevelopment authority acquire the site for no cost from the Navy, and have been happy to see new businesses use the facilities, including Resilient Communications, Molnlycke Health Care, the Brunswick Executive Airport, and a new campus of Southern Maine Community College.
Clean Energy
Maine is working to become a leader in clean energy, including offshore wind power and tidal power. Learn more here.
Local Foods
I am strong supporter of Maine's efforts to support local foods and local farms because there's no need to buy food from across the globe or country when our neighbors are already producing fresh, healthy produce. As member of the House Agriculture Committee, I'm working for federal policy that better supports creation of these local jobs. Learn more here.
Working Waterfronts
Maine's 20 miles of working waterfronts support 30,000 jobs, but are vulnerable to development. Communities need more resources to protect these critical places so generations of Mainers can continue making their living from the water. Learn more here.
More on Jobs and Economic Development
Brunswick, Maine—This morning, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) held a press conference at CEI in Brunswick to raise awareness of the USDA ReConnect Program, a new package of grants and loans to improve Internet speeds in rural areas. Along with stakeholders in attendance, Pingree discussed the problems that slow Internet in parts of Maine creates for those who live and work there, and possibilities for how funding could be used.
Portland, Maine—Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) today encouraged Maine communities to apply for a new USDA program providing loans and grants to improve rural broadband access.
Waterville, Maine—Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced today that the City of Waterville will receive a Department of Transportation BUILD grant for a total of $7,371,200 to make a number of improvements to its downtown streets and traffic pattern.
Portland, Maine—Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) announced today that two communities in her District—Bridgton and Rockland—will receive a total of $30 million in grants and loans to make critical improvements to their wastewater systems. Funding comes from the USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants Program, which Pingree has defended in Congress.
Portland, Maine—Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) announced today that Buxton-based VitaminSea would receive a $600,000 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) USDA grant to further develop SeaKelp+, a kelp-based additive for bread.
Washington, D.C.—Maine’s Congressional Delegation announced today that Sanford-based Flemish Master Weavers prevailed in its application for an exemption from a tariff on yarn it uses to manufacture area rugs in Maine. The ruling by the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board helps to level the playing field for Flemish Master Weavers to compete against foreign competitors and places the company in a strong position for continued growth.
Great morning spent in Waterville, talking with local organizations investing in the community's arts and creative economy. Amazing to see what's gone on here in last few years!
Portland, Maine—Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced today that over $2 million in USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) grants will be awarded to the University of Maine and a Waterville small business to advance Maine’s agricultural economy. FoodCorps, a program that offers food and agriculture education programs in several Maine communities, also received funding.
Portland, Maine—Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) announced today that Maine organizations will receive more than $1 million in funding from the USDA National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to recruit and train beginning farmers as well as assist farmers with chronic health issues and disabilities. Grants will go to the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, Somali Bantu Community Association of Lewiston Maine, and University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
Washington, D.C.—Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) announced today that Maine organization CEI would receive a $600,000 federal grant to help Junora, a manufacturing company in Biddeford, create 30 new jobs. Funding comes from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Community Economic Development Program, which Pingree fought to restore funding for on the House Appropriations Committee.