Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández Welcome $915,900 In Federal Investments To Support Food Business Growth In Farmington

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) are welcoming a $915,900 federal grant to San Juan College in Farmington to renovate and repurpose a city building to support the Harvest Food Hub and Kitchen.

“The San Juan College Harvest Food Hub is a great way for students to learn how to create economic opportunities in their own communities,” said Heinrich. “I’m proud to welcome this funding that teaches students valuable skills, all while supporting local farmers and businesses.”

“The Harvest Food Hub and Kitchen has been a critical resource to food entrepreneurs, farmers and students in New Mexico,” said Luján. “I’m pleased this funding will renovate the Harvest Food Hub and Kitchen, which will provide training, create jobs, support local businesses, and contribute to the local economy.”

“I am grateful to see this new grant come to San Juan College. This funding will benefit so many of our communities in the Farmington area and those who travel through it. The Harvest Food Hub and Kitchen will be able to use the funds to further support the local economy, create jobs, and make delicious food,” said Leger Fernández.

“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to help advance locally-driven strategies to boost economic recovery efforts,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will support small businesses and entrepreneurs, creating jobs and promoting economic resilience in New Mexico.”

This grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) will provide commercial kitchen space, training, and technical assistance for food entrepreneurs and businesses, supporting economic growth in New Mexico. This EDA grant will be matched with $228,975 in local funds and is expected to help create 40 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments (NWNMCOG). EDA funds NWNMCOG to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

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