Maine Entrepreneurial Resource Corps (MERC)
MERC helps Maine small businesses innovate and grow by offering subsidized consulting and free AI training to address technical, business, and technology challenges.
Funder: Maine Technology Institute
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted year-round, subject to funding availability)
Funding Amounts: Up to 50% of project costs, max $15,000 per year or $30,000 lifetime per business (consulting); up to 3 free Coursera AI training licenses per business (4 months each).
Summary: MERC supports Maine small businesses with subsidized consulting, business guidance, and free AI training to foster innovation and competitiveness.
Key Information: Licenses and consulting funds are limited and awarded first-come, first-served.
Description
The Maine Entrepreneurial Resource Corps (MERC) empowers Maine-based small businesses by providing subsidized access to expert consulting and technical assistance, as well as free, self-paced AI training through Coursera. The program aims to help businesses address challenges in areas such as marketing, finance, legal, and software development, while also building foundational AI skills to improve efficiency and growth. MERC is designed to help eligible businesses adapt, innovate, and remain competitive in Maine's technology-driven economy.
