Year in Review
Resilient EconomiesCEI and its subsidiaries CCML, CVI, and C7a deployed over $77 million in financing for businesses and projects in Maine and rural regions throughout the U.S.
More than 80% of our loans and investments support either entrepreneurs with low incomes, or business owners and companies that create jobs, affordable housing, and crucial services, such as childcare and health care, for economically-disadvantaged communities.
Year in Review
Growing Enterprises, Building AssetsCEI provided business advising and housing counseling to 3,357 entrepreneurs and individuals.
The Women’s Business Center at CEI, StartSmart program for immigrants and refugees, and Maine Small Business Development Centers at CEI connected business owners to $33.7 million in capital, and supported 107 startups. Our Housing Counseling Program worked with 1,063 individuals and families, helping avoid 62 foreclosures.
Year in Review
Unlocking PotentialCEI helped companies embrace innovation and opportunity.
Our Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems program advised 65 clients, supporting $2.5 million in lending. CEI’s Sustainable Fisheries program facilitated eight loans, and helped ensure waterfront access for 100 boats and fishermen. The Workforce Solutions team developed four Employment Training Agreements with companies and helped to connect job seekers with new jobs.
Year in Review
Expanding OpportunityCEI tackled policy issues that impact the success and well-being of our rural regions.
CEI issued “Building Maine’s Economy: How Maine Can Embrace Immigrants and Strengthen the Workforce,” a framework for leveraging the value that immigrants bring to Maine. A regional broadband conference and video produced by CEI made the case for expanding access in Maine. CEI supported a state minimum wage increase as a starting point for a more inclusive economy.