CDBG 2024 Micro-Enterprise Grant Program, Open Now
The Maine Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD), in partnership with NMDC, will provide grants of up to $10,000 for businesses with five or fewer employees, with an owner(s) whose income is below the threshold, as defined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Eligibility
The Community Development Block Grant Microenterprise Grant (CDBG) is limited to income-eligible households to open or expand a business in Maine. These funds may not be awarded to a household or individual who has received CDBG funding in the past. Funding is limited to business expenses only. Funds may not be used for construction, debt service, lobbying, payroll, or to purchase anything with wheels (For example, but not limited to: vehicles, trailers, food trucks, tractors, or UTVs).
County/Household Size – income limit per household. Household income is determined by Federal tax form 1040, line 11; adjusted gross income.
Apply now
It may take up to two hours to complete this application. The applicant must ensure all required questions are thoughtfully answered and each document is signed where required. Complete all steps and document uploads.
- Complete the application below.
- Upload the two required documents.
- Required Document One, upload 2024 Federal Tax Return (PDF)
- Required Document Two, upload business plan (PDF)
- Schedule and meet with a Maine SBDC advisor after submitting the application and documents.
- Aroostook County, select Dan Umphrey
- Washington County, select Dan McDonald
Timeline
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all funds have been awarded. Applications are reviewed, scored, and awarded in the order CDBG Grant Applications are received by the review committee. It may take 7-9 weeks from the time the application is reviewed until funds are dispersed.
- Complete Application Received By NMDC
- Application Reviewed & Scored
- Applicant Receives Award Letter To Sign
- CDBG Grant Funds Dispursed to Awarded Applicants