Catalyze. Strengthen. Guide.
MDF is a non-partisan, statewide driver of long-term economic growth in Maine. We connect people, decision-makers, and communities through trusted research, leadership development, and creative partnerships to stimulate new ideas, solve problems, and improve lives


MDF’s Policy Leaders Academy Featured in The County Publication
The County featured MDF’s program and the 60+ state legislators from all parties who are taking a 3-day bus tour of western and northern Maine.
For more info and to read the article


MDF’s President & CEO featured in Mainebiz
Yellow Light Breen, MDF’s President & CEO, is featured on the cover and in an article in the current edition of Mainebiz.
For more info & to read the article.
MDF is proud to have supported 5 rural towns who leveraged Northern Border Regional Commission & Maine Rural Development Authority grant funds to redevelop former mill sites and boost their economies.
2025 Light Up Leadership Alumni Gathering
Join us for an evening of laughter and fun as we celebrate all the ways YOU lead across Maine. We are accepting applications for the 2025-2026 classes so bring your leadership-curious friends and colleagues who could benefit from going through either program!
2025 MDC Board Roles and Responsibilities
A strong board of directors is built upon clear understanding of basic roles and responsibilities. This session will provide an overview of a board’s primary legal duties, important responsibilities and essential roles in governing the organization and stewarding its mission. Participants will: -Understand why we join boards -Clarify the roles of the board and its responsibilities -Discuss strategies for building and sustaining an effective board
MDF President & CEO, Yellow Light Breen, featured in Mainebiz
MDF’s President & CEO, Yellow Light Breen, is featured in the January 13th edition of Mainebiz. He shares his views…“MDF is a special creature of state law, enabled to integrate private sector thinking and experience with state government planning and data. There is no other entity like it.”
Kay Rand, Former Chief of Staff, Governor Angus King