Vertical Harvest Farms, a futuristic farming project in downtown Westbrook, has secured nearly $60 million in new financing from a combination of public and private sources. The 51,000-square-foot hydroponic farming building on Mechanic Street will be constructed with $59.5 million in funding from private finance companies, USDA’s Rural Development Business & Industry Loan Guarantees, and the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Loans.
The farming project began construction in 2021 and is set to open this summer. It is expected to employ over 60 people, using hydroponic farming techniques to grow leafy green vegetables without soil, allowing for efficient use of space and year-round production. Vertical Harvest estimates that they will be able to produce 2.5 million pounds of lettuce, petite greens, microgreens, and herbs annually. The farm’s operation will ensure fresh produce availability to Mainers even during the winter months with a farm-to-fridge philosophy of delivering within 24 hours.
USDA Rural Development Maine State Director Rhiannon Hampson expressed excitement about Vertical Harvest joining the team to build communities and feed Mainers. Nona Yehia, CEO of Vertical Harvest, stated their commitment to growing local, fresh, and fair food while ensuring inclusivity in the future of food. With this new financing in place, Vertical Harvest Farms is well on its way to becoming an important part of Maine’s agricultural landscape.
