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!
25 Feb
Leadership in Action Breakfast: Measures of Growth – Data in Action
Join other MDF Members and Leadership Program Alums for a workshop on putting data into action. Utilizing the Measures of Growth Report – now in it’s 31st year – as a framework and tool we will hear how businesses, organizations, and communities are putting data into action to address economic challenges and opportunities. We will then do workshop-style breakout sessions in smaller groups to see how we each can apply these best practices and approaches in our own organizations and communities.
04 Mar
2026 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’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
