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CDBG Micro-Enterprise Assistance Grant Program
The CDBG Micro-Enterprise Assistance Grant Program provides funding to address the needs of micro-businesses in non-entitlement areas* within the region. The program is funded through the Maine Department of Economic & Community Development's Community Block Grant program.
- Special Threshold Criteria and Certifications: The MEA Program provides grant funds to micro-enterprise businesses through a partnership with Maine’s Small Business Development Centers and their partners. Participation in the MEA delivery system is subject to the approval of the Director of the CDBG Program.
- Eligible Activities: Eligible activities include grants to for-profit businesses that can be used for working capital, purchase of inventory, supplies and equipment. Maine’s Small Business Development Centers will identify and pre-qualify those businesses who are eligible for the program. Potential participants will need to provide their previous years’ income tax return to verify eligibility. Cannabis related businesses are not eligible.
- Maximum Amount of Micro-Enterprise Assistance to an individual Business: $10,000
- Project Benefit / Demonstration of National Objective:
Existing businesses that have five or fewer employees, one of whom owns the enterprise, and whose household income is Low/Moderate as defined by HUD will meet the project benefit. Applicants will need to submit a copy of their previous year’s Personal Income Tax filing with their application. Non-owner employees’ incomes are not considered in meeting project benefit. - Selection Process: All Micro-Enterprise businesses wishing to submit a MEA application must meet with their local Small Business Development Center advisor to determine eligibility. SBDC advisors will review and approve complete applications to be considered for funding.
*Micro Business owners who live in Lewiston or Auburn are encouraged to contact their respective city about their micro-enterprise programs.