Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $992,586 in American Rescue Plan Funds to Support Manufacturing Business and Create Jobs in Houlton, Maine

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $992,586 grant to Shiretown Development Corporation, Houlton, Maine, to provide space for growth of local manufacturers. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This project will construct a 12,000-square foot industrial building and related infrastructure improvements to support manufacturing of tiny homes and commercial mobile units. The EDA investment will be matched with $250,000 in local funds and is expected to create or retain 40 jobs and generate $486,967 in private investment.

“Expanding America’s manufacturing footprint is a major Priority of the Biden-Harris administration,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will support the long-term recovery of the manufacturing sector in Northern Maine by providing a new manufacturing building that will support business expansion and job creation.”

“From forest products and agriculture to manufacturing and cross-border trade, Houlton has long been a crucial contributor to our state’s economy,” said Senator Angus King. “This new American Rescue Plan funding will create important manufacturing jobs in Houlton, spur valuable economic activity, and help expand options for much-needed affordable housing. This grant is a vital investment that will have a positive impact on our state for years to come. I look forward to seeing the impact of this funding, and am glad the American Rescue Plan is continuing to deliver for Maine.”

This project is funded under EDA’s American Rescue Plan Economic Adjustment Assistance program, which makes $500 million in Economic Adjustment Assistance grants available to American communities. The Economic Adjustment Assistance program is EDA’s most flexible program, and grants made under this program will help hundreds of communities across the nation plan, build, innovate, and put people back to work through construction or non-construction projects designed to meet local needs.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.