Microenterprise Assistance Program
The Microenterprise Assistance Program funds Maine micro-enterprises for capital, renovations, and business improvements to support local economic development.
Funder: Maine Department of Economic and Community Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2026 (Microenterprise Assistance Program application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $150,000 per community per year; up to $50,000 per business; grants or loans available
Summary: Supports micro-enterprise businesses in Maine with grants or loans for capital, renovations, and business improvements.
Key Information: All dates are projected; program may require partnership with a CDFI or CBDO for loan repayments.
Description
The Microenterprise Assistance Program, administered by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, is designed to help micro-enterprise businesses in Maine overcome key business challenges. The program provides grants or loans to for-profit businesses, which can be used for working capital, interior renovations, and a range of exterior improvements such as signage, painting, siding, awnings, lighting, and display windows. Funding may also be used for eligible planning activities necessary for project development. Infrastructure improvements and buildings used solely for residential purposes are not eligible. If a community expects to receive significant loan repayments ($35,000 or more), it must partner with a qualified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) or Community Based Development Organization (CBDO) to manage these funds.
