Funding Resources
CDBG Micro-Enterprise Assistance Grant Program 2026: Up to $10,000 for Maine Small Businesses
Small businesses in Maine can access funding through the CDBG Micro-Enterprise Assistance Grant Program, an initiative designed to help micro-enterprises overcome financial barriers and grow their operations. Funded through the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, the grant supports eligible businesses in non-entitlement communities with funding for essential business needs.
About the Grant
The CDBG Micro-Enterprise Assistance Grant Program is administered by the Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments (AVCOG) in partnership with the Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC). The program provides financial assistance to qualifying micro-businesses located in eligible areas of Maine, helping entrepreneurs strengthen and expand their businesses.
Grant Amount
Eligible businesses may receive up to $10,000 in grant funding.
The funding is intended to address immediate business needs and support the continued growth of qualifying micro-enterprises
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, applicants must:
Operate a for-profit micro-business.
Have five or fewer employees, including at least one owner.
Have an owner whose household income meets the HUD Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) guidelines.
Be located in an eligible non-entitlement area served by the program.
Provide the previous year's personal income tax return to verify eligibility.
Meet with a local Maine Small Business Development Center (SBDC) advisor for eligibility screening before submitting an application
How to Apply
Interested business owners should first schedule a meeting with their local Maine Small Business Development Center advisor to determine eligibility.
After the eligibility review, qualified applicants may complete and submit the grant application through the program.
Apply here: https://www.avcog.org/1215/CDBG-Micro-Enterprise-Assistance-Gran-P
Grants mentioned in this article
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