"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," said University of Maine Cooperative Extension, in a news release.

The Extension's Maine Agriculture Mediation Program (MAMP) 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 January 15, 2027, with one-hour online coaching sessions available October 1, 2026–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 January 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. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Lucy Wess at 207.974.9637 or lucille.wess@maine.edu.

About University of Maine Cooperative Extension: As a trusted resource for over 100 years, Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and grow the food-based economy, focusing on aspects from production and processing to nutrition, food safety and food security. Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H which offers hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement and creates a positive environment where participants are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.