About Us
The Maine Development Foundation (MDF) drives sustainable, long-term economic growth for Maine. MDF stimulates new ideas, develops leaders, and provides common ground for solving problems and advancing issues. To accomplish this mission, MDF, through its programs and research:
- Empowers leaders
- Strengthens communities
- Guides public policy
MDF is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation with a membership of 250. MDF was created by the Governor and Legislature in 1978 with a broad mandate to promote the economy. Funding comes from a variety of sources including fee-for-service, private contributions, memberships, foundations and state government contracts.
MDF is non-partisan and delivers the highest quality fact-driven work through its programs and through economic research conducted by professional staff. MDF oversees seven programs with a variety focuses ranging from community development, to leadership training, to workforce development. MDF staff members conduct a range of economic research analysis for public and private interests on issues across the economy. All work serves as the basis for extensive and ongoing educational and outreach efforts.
MDF Members
MDF membership represents private companies, educational institutions, municipalities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations throughout the state. MDF provides a common ground for leaders to discuss and act on issues affecting Maine's economy.
MDF Board of Directors
The MDF Board of Directors is comprised of no less than fifteen business people, educators, government officials and community leaders, who are elected each year from among the 250 corporators.
MDF Staff
MDF has a staff of nine professionals overseeing program and research responsibilities. Additionally, MDF makes extensive use of volunteers, loaned executives and consultants in delivering its work.
