February 13, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Statewide (Maine) –Today the Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC), a state-wide program that helps entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses, is pleased to announce its annual results.
In 2017, certified business advisors across Maine provided no-cost business advising to 1,400 entrepreneurs which helped clients to:
- Save and create 661 jobs
- Start 98 new businesses
- Access $44 million in capital to start or grow their businesses.
Over its 40th year history, the program has worked with an estimated 62,000 clients to help create and save over 16,000 jobs, start nearly 2,500 new businesses and access nearly $705 million in capital formation to start and grow businesses.
Return on investment for the Maine SBDC is evaluated annually through an independent study of the program conducted by Dr. James J. Chrisman at the Mississippi State University. His findings are based on information provided by a sampling of clients meeting with a Maine SBDC business advisor for at least five hours.
Dr. Chrisman’s most recent report indicated that for every dollar invested in the Maine SBDC, $4.16 was returned in incremental tax revenue.
“As we reflect on the last forty years, we’re encouraged by the program’s ability to have a real impact on the economic success of the State of Maine year after year. Activities that yield positive returns over an extended period, such as those carried out by the Maine SBDC, stand as a solid investment,” commented Maine SBDC State Director Mark Delisle. “We look forward to another forty years of helping Maine’s entrepreneurs and small businesses succeed.”
To access the full 2017 Annual Report, visit www.mainesbdc.org/about/program-results/
About the Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC)
The Maine SBDC provides no-cost, comprehensive business management assistance to small businesses throughout Maine through its network of certified business advisors. It is a program of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development and the University of Southern Maine and accredited by America’s SBDC. For more information or to request a business advising appointment, visit the website: www.mainesbdc.org or call 207-780-4420.