From the town Dec. 17: The Maine DECD’s Office of Community Development is pleased to announce two major funding opportunities designed to strengthen local businesses and revitalize community spaces: the Community Enterprise Grant (CE)Program and the Economic Development Program (EDP). These programs provide critical support for business improvements, streetscape projects, and job creation initiatives that benefit low- and moderate-income residents.

 "These grant programs are a tremendous opportunity for our local businesses and communities to invest in growth, improve our shared spaces, and create jobs for residents who need them most," Aaron Chrostowsky, Wiscasset economic development director, said. 

Community Enterprise Grant (CE): The CE Program provides up to $100,000 in funding to support: Business façade improvementssuch as signage, painting, siding, awnings, lighting, and display windows. Streetscape enhancementsinclude pocket parks, benches, street lighting, tree plantings, signage, traffic calming, and sidewalks (on public property only).

Additional details: Maximum assistance to individual businesses: $25,000. Communities must provide a 25% cash match. Projects must benefit designated slum/blight areas or communities with 51% or greater low/moderate income (LMI) populations.

Deadlines: Letter of Intent: Feb. 20, 2026. Application Due: April 10, 2026 (by invitation only)

Economic Development Program (EDP) provides up to $100,000 in gap funding to municipalities supporting identified businesses that create or retain jobs for low- and moderate-income persons. Eligible uses include: Working capital. Capital equipment purchases.

Key requirements: At least 51% of jobs created/retained must be held by LMI persons. Maximum CDBG participation per job: $30,000. Only permanent jobs count toward compliance (full-time or part-time converted to FTE). Applications may be submitted on behalf of one business only. 

Deadlines: Letter of Intent: First Friday of the month, starting July 3, 2026. Applications: By invitation only

 Interested businesses should contact the Town of Wiscasset, Economic Development Director, 207-882-8200 Ext. 8, economicdeveloper@wiscasset.gov for guidance on eligibility, application requirements, and deadlines. Communities are encouraged to prepare early to ensure that match commitments and documentation are in place.