LINKS.....
to websites useful to downtown revitalization.
Primary
Resources
Downtown
Research & Development Center
For more than 50 years, the Downtown Research & Development Center has provided a forum for exchanging news, information and ideas on how to rebuild the hearts of our cities.
International
Downtown Association
Through its network of committed individuals, its rich body of knowledge, and its unique capacity to nurture community-building partnerships, IDA is a guiding force in creating healthy and dynamic centers that anchor the well being of towns, cities and regions throughout the world.
Maine
Downtown Center
The mission of the Maine Downtown Center is to foster downtown development that is dynamic and community-based, and results in economic development, business growth, job creation, housing revitalization, historic preservation, and cultural enhancement.
National Trust Main Street Center
The National Trust Main Street Center's mission is to empower people, organizations, and communities to achieve ongoing downtown and neighborhood district revitalization based upon the principles of self-determination, resource conservation, and incremental transformation represented through the comprehensive Main Street Four-Point Approach™.
Information
about Maine Cities and Towns
There are many websites offering information about specific counties, cities and towns in Maine. Some are the official sites run by the towns themselves. Some are privately run. Those we can find are listed here.
Economic
Restructuring/Business Development
Bank of America
Bank of America brings the power of our human and financial
capital to transform communities into vibrant, desirable places for people to live, work and raise families.
BizStats
BizStats is the home of free, accurate business statistics – well organized and easy to access.
Bplans.com
The Business Plan Guide provides
expert advice on how to take a business idea and turn it into a polished business plan.
CDFI
Fund New Market Tax Credit Program
The CDFI Fund's mission is to expand the capacity of
financial institutions to provide credit, capital, and financial
services to underserved populations and communities in the United States.
Claritas
Claritas is all about giving you a clear picture of the customers you have yet to meet. With over thirty-five years of expertise in the development of standard-setting target marketing solutions, our understanding of consumers and markets worldwide is second to none.
Coastal
Enterprises Inc. (CEI)
Our mission is to help create economically and
environmentally healthy communities in which all people, especially those with low incomes, can reach their full potential.
Commerce
Clearinghouse
The leading provider of information services,
software and workflow tools for tax, accounting, legal and business professionals.
Community
Economic Development Fund
CEDF provides technical assistance and grants to
community-based organizations working to improve their neighborhoods. CEDF provides grants for community-based economic development
projects that stabilize and enhance neighborhoods.
Congress
for the New Urbanism
The Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) is the leading
organization promoting walkable, neighborhood-based development as an alternative to sprawl. CNU takes a proactive,
multi-disciplinary approach to restoring our communities.
Downtown
and Business District Market Analysis
Market analysis can be an exciting learning opportunity for a community. It should result in positive and measurable economic impacts for its downtown.
Economic
& Community Development, Maine Department of (DECD)
DECD serves as the umbrella organization to the offices of
Tourism, Business Development, the International Trade Center, Community Development, Film and Innovation and Science. In addition,
we are proud of our Made in Maine program, which is recognized worldwide for its quality and integrity.
Efficiency
Maine
Efficiency Maine is a statewide effort to promote the more
efficient use of electricity, help Maine residents and businesses reduce energy costs, and improve Maine's environment.
Efficiency Maine is funded by electricity consumers and administered by the Maine Public Utilities Commission.
Finance
Authority of Maine (FAME)
FAME is committed to innovative, flexible solutions that address the needs of Maine individuals and companies in a changing economic landscape. With a core competency in finance, and a highly experienced staff, FAME is the place to turn to for resources that build success.
Institute for Local Self Reliance (ILSR)
The Institute’s mission is to provide innovative strategies,
working models and timely information to support environmentally sound and equitable community development.
International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Foundation
The mission of the ICSC Foundation is to carry out educational and charitable initiatives that support the interests of the retail real estate industry and the International Council of Shopping Centers.
Labor, Maine Department of
The Maine Department of Labor promotes the safety and economic
well being of all individuals and businesses in Maine by promoting independence and life long learning, by fostering economic stability
and by ensuring the safe and fair treatment of all people on the job.
Local
Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
By providing capital, technical expertise, training and
information, LISC supports the development of local leadership and the creation of affordable housing, commercial, industrial and
community facilities, businesses and jobs.
MaineHousing
MaineHousing offers programs and services that make
housing more affordable to Maine people. Over 90,000 people will benefit from our programs this year. We believe everyone
deserves a good home.
Maine
Real Estate and Development Association (MEREDA)
MEREDA is an organization whose mission is to promote
an environment for responsible development and ownership of real estate throughout the State.
Maine Small
Business Development Centers
The focus of the Maine SBDC/SBTDC is to assist in the creation
and maintenance of viable micro, small and technology-based businesses and the jobs these businesses provide.
Office
of Secretary of State
This site, like our Department, has a lot to offer Maine
citizens, businesses and visitors, so please feel free to browse and come back often. If you have questions about the site, or if
additional information is needed, please call the Secretary of State's Office in Augusta at (207) 626-8400.
Service
Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" is a nonprofit
association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide. SCORE is a resource
partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Small
Business Administration
SBA is an independent agency of the federal government created
to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and
to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation.
Small
Business Development Centers
The Office of Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) provides
management assistance to current and prospective small business owners. SBDCs offer one-stop assistance to individuals and small
businesses by providing a wide variety of information and guidance in central and easily accessible branch locations.
U.S.
Census Bureau
The Census Bureau serves as the leading source of quality data
about the nation's people and economy. We honor privacy, protect confidentiality, share our expertise globally, and conduct our work
openly. We are guided on this mission by our strong and capable workforce, our readiness to innovate, and our abiding commitment to our
customers.
USDA
Rural Development
Rural Development is a diverse mission area of the United
States Department of Agriculture comprised of the utilities programs, business-cooperative programs, and the housing programs.
These three program areas provide a variety of financial services to communities and individuals in the state of Maine.
Design
Alternative
Development Standards Project, The
The design events and research projects described in this
web site provide a number of potential solutions to the problems spawned by un-sustainable urban growth.
American
Institute of Architects (AIA)
Through education, legislative and regulatory development,
professional education, and research, the AIA and its more than 83,000 members express their commitment to excellence in design and
livability in our nation’s buildings and communities.
American
Planning Association (APA)
APA is a nonprofit public interest and research organization
committed to urban, suburban, regional, and rural planning. APA and its professional institute, the American Institute of Certified
Planners, advance the art and science of planning to meet the needs of people and society.
American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
ASLA promotes the landscape architecture profession and advances
the practice through advocacy, education, communication, and fellowship.
Community
Gateways Program, Department of Transportation
The Community Gateway Program has been suspended until further
notice. If anyone would like to be placed on a contact list to be notified once the program is restarted, please contact
Larry Johannesman using the contact information at this site.
Congress
for the New Urbanism
The Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) is the leading
organization promoting walkable, neighborhood-based development as an alternative to sprawl. CNU takes a proactive,
multi-disciplinary approach to restoring our communities.
Environmental
Protection, Department of
Legislative mandate directs DEP to prevent, abate and control
the pollution of the air, water and land. The charge is to preserve, improve and prevent diminution of the natural environment of the
State. The Department is also directed to protect and enhance the public's right to use and enjoy the State's natural resources. The
Department administers programs, educates and makes regulatory decisions that contribute to the achievement of this mission.
GrowSmart
Maine
GrowSmart Maine is a statewide non-profit citizens' organization
working to promote sustainable prosperity and to protect the state's distinctive character and quality places.
Harriman
Associates
We offer full-service architecture and engineering and
can work with you from feasibility studies to finished building, transforming your vision to reality.
International Codes Council (ICC)
The ICC, a membership association
dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings,
including homes and schools.
Internet Resources for Heritage Conservation, Historic Preservation and Archaeology
NCPTT advances the application of science and technology to historic preservation. Working in the fields of archeology, architecture, landscape architecture and materials conservation, the Center accomplishes its mission through training, education, research, technology transfer and partnerships.
IRS
Regulations Pertaining to the Preservation Tax Incentives Program
The Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program offers a 20% tax credit for the rehabilitation of income-producing historic structures. Since 1976, the National Park Service has administered the program in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service and State Historic Preservation Officers.
Maine
Historic Preservation Commission
Established through a legislative act in 1971, the Maine
Historic Preservation Commission is an independent agency within the Executive branch of state government that functions as the
State Historic Preservation Office. Its Director is the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). The Commission is responsible
for the identification, evaluation, and protection of Maine’s significant cultural resources as directed by the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966.
Maine
Preservation
For 36 years, Maine Preservation has encouraged the
recognition and preservation of Maine's historic buildings, neighborhoods, landscapes, downtowns and communities.
Maine
State Planning Office
The Maine State Planning Office strives to integrate the
development of the State’s economy with the conservation of its natural resources. This involves coordinating a long-range view of
state policies; including the development of economic, natural resource, energy, land use, and fiscal and regulatory policy. The State
Planning Office identifies and assists with issues of long-term significance to the State, particularly those that involve multiple
agencies. The State Planning Office also provides a wide range of technical and financial assistance to Maine communities.
National
Housing & Rehabilitation Association
Real estate development, particularly affordable housing,
historic rehabilitation and New Markets Tax Credit transactions, is a challenging, knowledge-intensive, and relationship-driven
enterprise. It requires up-to-the-minute knowledge and collaboration with top-notch professionals. That’s where the National Housing &
Rehabilitation Association comes in. Whether it’s issues of financing techniques, equity investment, deal structuring, asset management,
subsidy allocations, project design, management operations or new development opportunities, you’ll get the information here.
National
Park Service
Beyond national parks, the National Park Service helps
communities across America preserve and enhance important local heritage and close-to-home recreational opportunities. Grants and
assistance are offered to register, record and save historic places; create community parks and local recreation facilities; conserve
rivers and streams, and develop trails and greenways.
National
Trust for Historic Preservation
Real estate development, particularly affordable housing,
historic rehabilitation and New Markets Tax Credit transactions, is a challenging, knowledge-intensive, and relationship-driven
enterprise. It requires up-to-the-minute knowledge and collaboration with top-notch professionals. That’s where the National Housing &
Rehabilitation Association comes in. Whether it’s issues of financing techniques, equity investment, deal structuring, asset management,
subsidy allocations, project design, management operations or new development opportunities, you’ll get the information here.
Neighborhood
Charrette Handbook, The (and other SUN publications)
Sustainable Urban Neighborhoods (SUN) mission is to explore strategies, which foster
empowering individuals in the community, promoting neighborhood revitalization and self-sufficiency achieved through community
partnerships.
PreservationDirectory.com
Our goal is to foster the preservation of historic buildings,
historic downtowns and neighborhoods, cultural resources and to promote heritage tourism by facilitating communication among historic
preservation professionals and the general public.
Project
for Public Spaces
Project for Public Spaces is a nonprofit organization dedicated
to helping people create and sustain public spaces that build stronger communities. Today, PPS has become an internationally recognized
center for best-practices, information, and resources about Placemaking.
Quality Community Program, Maine Department of Transportation
The Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) is
pleased to announce its new Quality Community Program, a new name for existing programs you are probably already familiar with,
such as Transportation Enhancements, Safe Routes to School, Small Harbor Improvement Program, and various other community programs.
The Department has consolidated the former individual applications into a “common” Quality Community Program application to improve
overall program and project delivery, as well as to simplify application processes.
Regional
Planning Association
Regional Plan Association (RPA) is an independent, not-for-profit
regional planning organization that improves the quality of life and the economic competitiveness of the 31-county New York-
New Jersey-Connecticut region through research, planning, and advocacy. For more than 80 years, RPA has been shaping transportation
systems, protecting open spaces, and promoting better community design for the region's continued growth. We anticipate the challenges
the region will face in the years to come, and we mobilize the region's civic, business, and government sectors to take action.
Smart
Growth Network
In 1996, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency joined with
several non-profit and government organizations to form the Smart Growth Network (SGN). The Network was formed in response to increasing
community concerns about the need for new ways to grow that boost the economy, protect the environment, and enhance community vitality.
The Network's partners include environmental groups, historic preservation organizations, professional organizations, developers, real
estate interests; local and state government entities.
Sprawl Guide and other publications from the Planning Commissioners Journal
The PCJ covers a wide range of planning issues, focusing on
how citizen planners can work most effectively. You'll find topics such as: how to deal with the media; the basics of putting together
a comprehensive plan; conflicts of interest & ex-parte communications; running an effective meeting; developing good staff-commissioner
relations -- and many, many more.
Sprawl
Watch Clearinghouse
The Sprawl Watch Clearinghouse mission is to make the tools,
techniques, and strategies developed to manage growth, accessible to citizens, grassroots organizations, environmentalists, public
officials, planners, architects, the media and business leaders. At the Clearinghouse we identify, collect, compile, and disseminate
information on the best land use practices, for those listed above.
Transportation,
Maine Department of
Transportation
for Livable Communities
The purpose of the Transportation for Livable Communities
(TLC) Program is to support community-based transportation projects that bring new vibrancy to downtown areas, commercial cores,
neighborhoods, and transit corridors, enhancing their amenities and ambiance and making them places where people want to live, work
and visit. TLC provides funding for projects that provide for a range of transportation choices, support connectivity between
transportation investments and land uses, and are developed through an inclusive community planning effort.
Urban
Land Institute
Walkable
Communities, Inc.
Walkable Communities has assisted federal, state and local
governments and their related agencies - both elected officials and staff, developers, neighborhood associations, chambers of commerce,
planning and engineering consultants, community groups and other non-profit organizations in their quest to make their communities more
liveable and sustainable.
Wilbur
Smith Associates
Wilbur Smith Associates is a full-service transportation and
infrastructure consulting firm providing a unique blend of planning, design, toll, economic and construction-related services to clients
around the world. Completely employee owned, Wilbur Smith Associates has more than 1,000 associates in 56 offices in 8 countries. Since
its founding in 1952, the firm has completed projects in all 50 U.S. states and 117 countries on six continents.
Wright
Pierce
For more than a half century, Wright-Pierce has been helping
municipalities and municipal utilities build and maintain their infrastructure systems to support the community's vision for the future
and to enhance the quality of life in the community. Our expertise encompasses all municipal infrastructure systems and our services
include planning, design,...
Organization
Center
for Community Change
The Center for Community Change strengthens, connects and
mobilizes grassroots groups to enhance their leadership, voice and power. We believe that vibrant community-based organizations,
led by the people most affected by social and economic injustice, are key to putting an end to the failed "on your own" mentality of
the right and building a new politics based on community values.
Foundation
Center
The Center maintains the most comprehensive database on U.S.
grantmakers and their grants — a robust, accessible knowledge bank for the sector. It also operates research, education, and training
programs designed to advance philanthropy at every level.
Fund
Raiser
Grants
Hotline
Insititue for Civic Leadership
The Institute for Civic Leadership builds Maine’s civic capacity
by training, supporting, engaging, and convening a growing network of skilled leaders. We bring innovative and inclusive models of
leadership to Maine’s communities and organizations. We open doors and build new relationships. We inspire leaders. We move Maine
forward.
Maine
Association of Nonprofits - MANP
The Maine Association of Nonprofits (MANP) is committed to
advancing and strengthening Maine's nonprofit sector. MANP is a membership organization offering professional skill development
programs, affordable healthcare and benefits plans, discounts on related programs and services and advocacy resources, and is
part of a national network of state associations.
Maine
Philanthropy Center
Founded in 1995, the Maine Philanthropy Center is an association
of 93 Maine grantmakers - small and large private foundations, community foundations, public foundations, corporate giving programs,
family foundations and philanthropic individuals - who share a commitment to increasing the vitality and visibility of Maine’s
philanthropy community. The Maine Philanthropy Center is a 501(c)(3) organization serving foundations and other grantmakers. We do not
make grants. Those interested in a statewide organization serving nonprofits may wish to contact the Maine Association of Nonprofits.
United
Way of Maine
It takes everyone in the community working together to create a
brighter future. So we bring together people from all across the community–government, business, faith groups, nonprofits, the labor
movement, ordinary citizens–to tackle the issues. Because we all win when a child succeeds in school, when a family becomes financially
stable, when people have good health.
Unity
Foundation
The Unity Foundation is a public charity (501c3/509a3) that
awards grants to three designated nonprofits (Unity College, Good Will-Hinckley and Four Square Foundation) and other nonprofits engaged
in collaborative work with Unity College, Good Will-Hinckley and Four Square Foundation. The Unity Foundation is committed to building
the management capacity of its three designated organizations and other nonprofits that are working in collaboration with them.
Promotion
International
Special Events Society
http://www.ises.com
National
Civic League
http://www.ncl.org
Promotion
Link
http://www.promotionlink.com
Schallert
& Associates, Inc.
http://www.Retail-USA.com
Special
Events Magazine
http://www.specialevents.com
