Philosophy & Programs

Trusted research. Leadership development. Creative partnerships.

MDF is a non-partisan, statewide public-private organization with a broad range of members and partners from across the state. We are conveners who bring leaders together across sectors to find common ground, explore new approaches to persistent challenges, solve problems and to drive sustainable economic growth and improve the lives of all Mainers.

We connect businesses, policymakers, educators, community leaders and other non-profits through programs and initiatives in three critical economic development areas: trusted research, leadership development and creative partnerships.

 Trusted Research

MDF knows the power of data, the strength of research and how unbiased information can inform the future. Our multi-sector, non-partisan methods of collecting data, testing its validity with our cross-sector partners, and sharing it widely across our network is why we are one of the most trusted source of economic data in Maine.

Leadership Development

MDF understands the importance of leadership in sustainable economic growth. Our leadership development programs provide training and experiential learning opportunities to ensure decision makers of every type and from every sector have access to the training and resources they need to be effective catalysts and conveners in their businesses and communities.

Creative Partnerships

MDF is here to connect you with the people, research, and resources you need to solve problems and implement innovative approaches that make visions of a more vibrant community the reality.  We are facilitators who help lead broad coalitions achieve economic development, community revitalization and build the workforce Maine will need far into the future.