East Grand grants fill gaps left by shuttered businesses

The Greater East Grand Economic Council awarded $60,000 in a second round of business innovation grants aimed at new development and growth across the East Grand Lake Region, covering 15 towns in northern Washington and southern Aroostook counties. Backed by Portland-based Prism Fund, the grants target gaps considered most critical: a shortage of skilled tradespeople and limited entry-level employment. The council said paper mill closures and forestry cutbacks pushed many residents into seasonal work and forced younger people to find jobs elsewhere. Funds include $25,000 for Jack’s Walkin’ Tacos in Danforth-area Amity and $35,000 to expand master electrician Jacob Williams’ services into Danforth. The program began last year with an $18,000 pilot.