Financial conversations can be uncomfortable and are often avoided, limiting opportunities for individuals and families in agriculture, aquaculture and fishing to build confidence in money management, planning and budgeting. University of Maine Cooperative Extension’s Maine Agriculture Mediation Program is offering a no-cost, confidential Personal Financial Coaching Program designed to create a low-barrier opportunity to explore these topics. Enrollment is open through Jan. 15, 2027, with one-hour online coaching sessions available from Oct. 1 to April 30, 2027.
The program is open to land and sea farmers, fishermen and industry workers and is limited to 20 individuals or families. Participants receive up to four hours of personalized guidance from financial coach Allison Bishop, CPA. Depending on individual interests, sessions may address budgeting and spending plans, growing savings, managing debt, building credit scores, investing and retirement planning. The program is intended to build personal financial management knowledge and skills that can also transfer to farm or fishing businesses.
The program, an $800 value, is offered at no cost. Applications are being accepted through Jan. 15, 2027. If the program reaches capacity, applicants may be added to a waitlist and notified as openings become available. For more information or to apply, visit the program webpage (https://extension.umaine.edu/agriculture/agricultural-mediation/financial-coaching/). For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Lucy Wess at 207-974-9637 or lucille.wess@maine.edu.