Business Resources
Additional resources for small businesses.
APEX Maine Accelerator
- APEX counselors work with local businesses to obtain registrations and certifications so they can compete in the government marketplace. Through one-on-one counseling, technical assistance, and group training, they prepare businesses to compete in the local, state and federal government marketplace.
- Counselor for Kennebec & Somerset Counties
- Marissa Henkel; mhenkel@emdc.org
- Counselor for Waldo County
- Sam Updike; supdike@emdc.org
Maine Small Business Development Centers
- Maine SBDC provides business advising and training to help entrepreneurs in the creation, growth, and success of their small businesses.
- Maine SBDC offers free live and on demand learning opportunities for small businesses.
- Resources for Small Businesses on…
SCORE Maine
- Stay up to date on current Workshops, Webinars, Events and Courses through SCORE at their Small Business Education page.
- Gain insights and skills needed to grow your business. SCORE's small business training includes live and recorded webinars, in-person and online workshops, events and courses led by industry experts. Whether you’re starting out or looking to expand, they provide the educational tools to help you succeed.
- Get free business advise from a SCORE Mentor:
- SCORE can help you start, grow or successfully exit a business. Small business owners who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth.
Finance Authority of Maine (FAME)
- Business Roadmap
- Whether you’re starting a business or seeking financing for an existing business, you may need some help. Fortunately, the state of Maine has numerous organizations and resources to help guide you, many of them at no cost. While FAME does not provide business counseling, they can point you to the organizations that do. The Business Roadmap outlines key steps in the business planning and financing process, along with the tools, resources, and trusted partners that can help you along the way.
- FAME Financing Programs
- FAME helps Mainers finance their business needs. Whether through our direct loan programs, bond programs, or equity capital and tax credit programs, FAME is here for you.
- Resources for Business Owners
- Looking to start up, grow, or expand? Use this quick reference list to get help building your business.
Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI)
- CEI offers business financing for a wide range of purposes including start-up, working capital, real estate and equipment purchases, facilities expansion, and construction in Maine.
- Advising that meets you where you are. Workshops that open doors. A Maine economy where every entrepreneur can thrive – from “just an idea” to grand openings and beyond.”
- Support and Learning for Entrepreneurs
CEI Women's Business Center
- The CEI Women’s Business Center is a home for women who want to start or grow their own business in Maine.
- Workshops & Events
- Courses & Peer Learning
- One-on-One Advising
Maine Office of Business Development
- For more information on Tax Incentives or Tax Credit and Exceptions, check out the DECD website.
Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC)
- Check out this list of additional Business Development resources.
Somerset Economic Development Corporation (SEDC)
- Financing options and advice for Somerset County Businesses.
- Check out this list of additional resources for consulting & business planning for Somerset County businesses.
The University of Maine's Maine Business, Science, and Technology Library
- MBSTL Business
- Starting a Business
- Running a Business
- Managing Human Resources.
- Growing a Business
- Additional Resources
Maine Department of Labor (MDOL)
- The Maine Department of Labor helps improve opportunities for workers and businesses through workforce development. This page includes information and links on Maine workforce development policy and initiatives. For more information on Maine's workforce services for jobseekers or employers, visit your local CareerCenter.
Dirigo Business Incentives
- The Dirigo Business Incentives program offers eligible businesses the opportunity to greatly reduce state taxes for up to 5 years when they make significant capital investments or provide qualified employee training in certain business sectors.
Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) Workforce Training For Business
What KVCC Offers
- Non-credit training opportunities to help individuals strengthen their skills, advance in their current roles, or prepare for new career opportunities.
- Customized training for businesses and organizations seeking tailored workforce development solutions for groups of 6+ employees.
- Their programs are designed to meet the training needs of those that require flexible scheduling and innovative programming. They can deliver these trainings on our KVCC campus, online, or at your facility.