Small Business Grants in Maine
Maine's small business economy is built on fishing and maritime industries, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and a growing technology presence in Portland. The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and Maine SBDC are the primary state resources for grants.
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Maine's Small Business Economy
Maine's key industries include fishing and seafood, tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology. Grant programs are often tailored to these sectors, meaning businesses in these industries tend to qualify for more opportunities — and face less competition for state-specific awards than for purely federal programs.
Top Grants Available to Maine Businesses
These are nationwide programs with no state restrictions. Maine businesses qualify for all of them.
Jobber Grants for Home Service Businesses
Jobber
Annual $250,000 grant program exclusively for home service businesses — plumbing, HVAC, electrical, roofing, landscaping, painting, pest control, cleaning. Grand prize $100K, plus $50K, $25K×2, and $10K×5. Requires joining the free Jobber Home Service Community Forum before applying.
HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
HUD does not grant CDBG funds directly to businesses, nonprofits, or individuals — the direct grantee is always the city or county government. There is no application a business can submit to HUD; a business can only lobby its local government to fund a project. Verified against hud.gov 2026-07-14.
Accion Opportunity Fund Grants
Accion Opportunity Fund
Primarily a LOAN provider (term loans, SBA 7(a), equipment/truck financing) — actual grants are rare, sponsor-specific, time-limited side programs (e.g. a past $10K Black-owned-business grant, a past $5K restart grant), not a standing $25K general grant. Most current activity is loans, not grants.
USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
USDA Rural Development
Grants covering up to 50% of project costs for HVAC upgrades, energy efficiency improvements, and renewable energy installations at rural small businesses. Strong fit for HVAC contractors upgrading client equipment or their own facility.
IFundWomen General Grant
IFundWomen
Ongoing grants and coaching for women-owned businesses. IFundWomen partners with major brands to fund women entrepreneurs across all industries.
Amber Grant for Women
WomensNet
Monthly $10,000 grants to women-owned businesses plus a $50,000 year-end grant. One of the most accessible women's business grants — $15 application fee, no minimum revenue, rolling monthly deadlines.
Cartier Women's Initiative Award
Cartier
International grant for women-led, for-profit businesses with positive social and/or environmental impact. Up to $100K for finalists.
Visa She's Next Grant Program
Visa
Grants and mentorship for women-owned small businesses, with a focus on Black women entrepreneurs and underserved communities.
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Get My Free Maine Grant ReportMaineState Programs & Resources
In addition to federal grants, Maine has state-specific programs worth exploring.
Maine DECD Small Business Programs
Administers the Maine Small Business and Entrepreneurship Commission programs, Maine Technology Institute grants, and various economic development loans.
Maine SBDC
The Maine SBDC offers free consulting and grant research at centers across the state.
Maine Technology Institute (MTI)
Provides grants and investments to Maine technology-based businesses, particularly those in life sciences, marine science, and advanced manufacturing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there grants specifically for Maine businesses?▼
Yes — Maine has state-specific programs including Maine DECD Small Business Programs, Maine SBDC, Maine Technology Institute (MTI). In addition to the federal grants above, our report includes guidance on finding and applying to Maine-specific programs.
Are there grants for Portland or Bangor small businesses?▼
Portland has the Portland Regional Chamber and city-level economic development programs. Bangor has the Eastern Maine Development Corporation and various programs through the Bangor Region Chamber.
Does Maine have grants for fishing or maritime businesses?▼
Maine's fishing industry has strong grant support through NOAA, the Maine Department of Marine Resources, and the Maine Lobstermen's Association. Aquaculture businesses have specific programs through the Maine DMR.
Are there Maine grants for rural or agricultural businesses?▼
Maine's rural economy benefits from USDA Rural Development grants, the Maine Agricultural Marketing Loan Fund, and programs through the Maine Farmland Trust for agricultural businesses.
Do I have to pay back a grant?▼
No — grants are free money that does not need to be repaid. Unlike loans, grants are awarded outright for qualifying business activities. Some grants have reporting requirements (spending documentation) but no repayment obligation.
How long does it take to receive grant money?▼
It depends on the grant. After approval, most federal grants disburse within 30-90 days. State grants vary. Some private grants (like Hello Alice and Amber Grant) can move faster. Our report identifies the fastest grants to apply for.
What if I don't have any certifications?▼
Many top grants are open to all small businesses regardless of certifications. That said, certifications like WOSB, VOSB, or MBE can dramatically increase the number of grants you qualify for. Our report includes a certification roadmap if you qualify.
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