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Economic Development Division | 389 Congress Street | Room 308 | Portland, Maine 04101 | 207-874-8683

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Application Economic Development Vision and Plan

Program Guidelines

Description

This Program provides grant monies to invest in economic development projects and programs that carry-out Portland’s Economic Development Vision and Plan. Its purpose is to fund planning studies and other “soft” costs associated with economic development projects and programs that advance the initiatives spelled out in the Plan. The Grant Program does not invest in “hard” costs for public infrastructure or private development projects. Its focus is on expenditures for economic development projects and programs.

Objectives

• Facilitate the expansion of industry sectors with high value/high job growth potential;
• Support job creation and retention;
• Facilitate opportunities for start-ups and expansion of small businesses;
• Enhance the City’s image as a center for innovation, entrepreneurship and business growth; and
• Strengthen the economic health and vitality of commercial districts.

Eligible Activities

• Planning that evaluates economic development opportunities;
• Business recruitment activities that focus on targeted industries;
• Marketing plans/strategies for the City;
• Programs that enhance the climate in downtown business districts and access to them.

Funding Requirements

• Maximum grant request is $75,000;
• Grants must be matched by an equal or greater dollar amount from funding sources other than the Portland Development Corporation.

Funding

• The Portland Development Corporation will utilize up to $250,000 from PDC Programs to capitalize this Program.

Eligible Applicants

Not-for-profit and public entities that are working to implement the City of Portland’s Economic Development Plan with direct benefit to the City.

Application and Approval Process

Submit applications to the City’s Economic Development Division, City Hall, Room 308. The Portland Development Corporation reviews and approves all grant requests.