AmeriCounsel to provide free technical, financial assistance to Puerto Rico farmers.

By THE STAR STAFF

Agriculture Secretary Irving Rodríguez Torres announced on Tuesday a new agreement with the AmeriCounsel Foundation to provide free technical assistance and financing support to eligible farmers and agribusiness owners across Puerto Rico.

“The development of our agricultural sector depends on giving producers access to real tools for growth,” Rodríguez Torres said in a written statement. “This partnership with the AmeriCounsel Foundation represents a concrete opportunity for farmers and agribusinesses to strengthen their operations, obtain financing, and transition toward more competitive and sustainable models.”

Under the agreement, eligible participants will receive legal, accounting, and human resources services, as well as assistance with business incorporation, government registrations, business documentation, employment contracts, operational regulations, financial projections, financial statements, and the preparation of profit and loss statements.

The initiative will also offer support in identifying financing opportunities and in drafting and submitting competitive proposals at both the state and federal levels. In addition, participating farmers and agribusiness owners will receive help developing business plans, market studies and feasibility analyses.

“At the AmeriCounsel Foundation, we are committed to supporting farmers and agribusiness owners through high-level technical assistance at no cost,” said Yamil Jaskille Mújica, a representative of the foundation. “Our goal is to facilitate access to capital, strengthen business structures, and help more agricultural projects grow in an organized and sustainable manner.”

Services will be available to eligible agribusinesses with fewer than 50 employees, annual revenues under $1 million, and operations located in designated municipalities, with priority given to areas recently impacted by severe weather events. The initiative is funded through federal resources received by the AmeriCounsel Foundation via the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development program.

Rodríguez Torres encouraged farmers -- particularly small and midsize agricultural entrepreneurs -- to take advantage of the program. Interested individuals may seek guidance through the Department of Agriculture, its regional offices, or by contacting the AmeriCounsel Foundation directly.