The Maine Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) in partnership with the SBDC will provide grants of up to $5,000 for businesses with five or fewer employees, with an owner whose income is in the low to moderate range as defined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The second round of funding to this program is now available and can be accessed by individuals across the state who meet eligibility criteria.
Eligibility criteria include:
Must be a Maine business and resident
Must demonstrate a revenue loss as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Funds cannot duplicate those received from other federal, state, or local programs (including other CDBG funds)
Must have five or fewer employees including the owner(s)
Must have a DUNS Number, which can be obtained here.
Owner's household income must be low/moderate (details here)
How to Apply? Funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Business owners must meet with a Maine SBDC business advisor to determine eligibility and submit an application. Connect with a business advisor now...
These funds are made possible as part federal CARES Act for its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The funds for the program are being distributed through Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments (AVCOG), Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI), Northern Maine Development Commission (NMDC), and Southern Maine Planning & Development Commission (SMPDC).
