Revolutionizing Agriculture: Vertical Harvest Farms Secures $59.5 Million for Groundbreaking Hydroponic Farming Project in Maine

In a groundbreaking development for agriculture in Maine, Vertical Harvest Farms has secured $59.5 million in funding for its futuristic farming project in downtown Westbrook. The 51,000-square-foot hydroponic farming building on Mechanic Street is expected to open later this summer, providing fresh produce to Mainers all year round.

The financing includes support from private financial companies as well as loans from the USDA’s Rural Development Business & Industry Loan Guarantees and Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Loans. This collaboration emphasizes a commitment to building communities and providing food security to Mainers, as stated by USDA Rural Development Maine State Director Rhiannon Hampson.

Vertical Harvest Farms’ hydroponic farming techniques allow for the cultivation of numerous plants in a smaller space compared to traditional farming practices that require more land. Utilizing a nutrient solution to support plant growth, the project aims to grow leafy green vegetables without soil, producing 2.5 million pounds of lettuce, petite greens, microgreens, and herbs annually.

CEO Nona Yehia expressed the company’s mission of creating locally grown, fresh, and equitable food options for all. With an emphasis on delivering farm-to-fridge within 24 hours, Vertical Harvest Farms is set to revolutionize the way Mainers access fresh produce year round.