Outline of Programs

MDF works to improve the life of each Mainer

MDF is a non-partisan, statewide driver of equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth in Maine. We connect people, decision-makers, and communities though trusted research, leadership development, and creative partnerships to stimulate new ideas, solve problems, and improve lives.  You can learn more about each of our programs and partnerships by clicking the links below:

Trusted Research

Measures of Growth Report: Now in its 31st year, an annual analysis of data for 25+ critical indicators of achieving and sustaining a healthy Maine economy.

Making Maine Work: Report series created in partnership with the Maine State Chamber of Commerce which provides an action plan for improving productivity, growing the economy, and providing a higher quality of life for all Maine people.

Maine Economic Growth Council: A non-partisan council now in its 31st year that is focused on the long-term economic health of the state.

Leadership Development

Leadership Maine: Statewide, outward-oriented experiential program now in its 31st year that focuses on collective approaches to critical issues facing our state and cross-sector strategies to overcoming challenges and capitalizing on opportunities.

Institute for Civic Leadership:  Statewide, inward-oriented experiential program now in its 31st year that focuses on identifying one’s leadership style & strengths, and explores collaborative leadership, problem solving techniques, and leading through complex change.

Policy Leaders Academy: A non-partisan educational program for Maine legislators that provides a clear understanding of the economic impact of public policy decisions

Realize Maine Network: Statewide program now in its 26th year that focused on retention and attraction of young professionals (age 40 and under) through regional social, civic, and career activities.

Creative Economic, Community, and Workforce Development Partnerships

Maine Downtown Center: Statewide program now in its 26th year that supports 40+ communities around the state through a nationally recognized model to implement downtown revitalization efforts and foster community-based development.

FOR/Maine (Forest Opportunity Roadmap): A collaborative effort now in its 9th year that brings together the forest product industry and community stakeholders to grow Maine’s $8-billion, 30,000 job forest economy to $12-billion by 2025.

Maine Spark: A 10-year collaborative effort by a broad business, education and community coalition committed to the goal of 60% of Maine workers attaining post-secondary degrees or credentials by 2025.

SEA Maine (Seafood Economic Accelerator): An industry-led initiative bringing together leaders in Maine’s commercial fishing, aquaculture, and seafood economy to support economic growth, market and workforce development, and greater resiliency in Maine’s seafood economy.