Amber Lambke’s effort to expand her grain-milling business in rural Skowhegan, Maine, faces a significant hurdle: the cost of construction far exceeds the projected value of the new building, a common problem in rural economic development. This appraisal gap hinders not only Lambke’s expansion but also reflects broader challenges in revitalizing rural economies, where low property values and disinvestment complicate new projects. The scenario underscores the difficulties rural entrepreneurs encounter in securing financing due to inadequate collateral values.

https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-math-problem-stymieing-small-businesses-in-rural-america-cc7cfa6f