Catalyze. Strengthen. Guide.
MDF is a non-partisan, statewide driver of sustainable 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 Maine Downtown Center Welcomes Lewiston and Bangor as Affiliate Communities
MDC will work with both communities to gauge downtown assets, identify priorities for revitalization, build an appropriate organizational and funding base for an effective downtown/neighborhood commercial district, and begin preservation-based community revitalization work.
MDF’s Realize Maine Network and Steering Committee Chair featured on Maine Public’s “Maine Calling” Show
Nate Henry, 2026 Chair of MDF’s Realize Maine Network‘s Steering Committee, Vice Chair of RMN member group PROPEL, and Commercial Loan Portfolio Manager with Kennebec Savings Bank was a featured speaker recently on Maine Public’s Maine Calling show.
More info and listen to the show
Hear why Alumni of MDF’s ICL (Institute for Civic Leadership) describe how the program experience and the Alumni Network are career-and-life changing. Applications & nominations are being accepted for the next 2026-2027 Class!
17 Apr
ICL Goose Eye Class Graduation
Gather with classmates, colleagues, friends, and family to celebrate our ICL Goose Eye Class graduation!
29 Apr
Leadership in Action Breakfast: Leading vs. Managing – Building Collaborative Leadership Skills To Strengthen Teams
What makes someone a great leader? Someone whose project or passion we want to be part of, someone to whom we willingly give our time and energy? They are people who make us feel valued, who appreciate our skills and contributions, and who encourage us to learn and grow. Join MDF Members and Leadership Program Alums for a workshop to explore what it means to lead versus manage.
MDF’s Realize Maine Network Featured on Maine Public’s “Maine Calling” Show
Nate Henry, 2026 Chair of MDF’s Realize Maine Network‘s Steering Committee, Vice Chair of RMN member group PROPEL, and Commercial…“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
Recruiting is underway for our 2026-2027 ICL & Leadership Maine classes!
Champion circle members
