The manufacturing industry in Maine plays a significant role in the state's economy. Over the years, Maine has experienced a shift from traditional manufacturing sectors to more specialized and niche industries. Maine's manufacturing sector is diverse, encompassing various industries such as paper and pulp, food processing, shipbuilding, aerospace, composite materials, wood products, and more.
The manufacturing industry in Maine is comprised of a variety of businesses that provide critical goods for the national economy, with 82% of sales exported outside of the state (2023, Camoin Associates). Efforts to advance specialized manufacturing, advanced technologies, and value-added products are encouraging trends for the sector.
Read more about the Domestic Trade Industry Profiles here:
- Manufacturing Industry Profile Overview (PDF) (May 2023)
- Advanced Manufacturing: Machinery, Metals, and Aerospace Industry Profile (PDF) (May 2023)
- Biomedical Manufacturing Industry Profile (PDF) (May 2023)
- Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing Profile (PDF) (2021)
- Outdoor Recreation Manufacturing Industry Profile (PDF) (2021)
An exciting new, free resource is available for Maine manufacturers. Join CONNEX™ Maine to boost your business, discover new opportunities, source supplies, and connect with other manufacturers in Maine.
Resources
E2Tech Sustaining Partner Program - Invest in Maine's premier clean technology business and economic development organization, and they will promote your company through their numerous network channels across the region.
Manufacturers' Association of Maine - The Manufacturer's Association of Maine has comprehensive services for businesses in Maine’s Manufacturing industry.
Maine Accelerates Growth (MxG) - Funding for innovative and entrepreneurial companies, with initial funding awarded in the following areas: 1) programs & events that support increased capital, market access, and/or talent access; or 2) that build upon Maine's innovative and entrepreneurial culture.
Maine APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) - Maine APEX Accelerator focuses on giving you technical assistance and training to better position your business to win and perform on government contracts at the local, state, and federal levels.
Maine Center for Entrepreneurs Top Gun Program - A 15 week educational experience and competition for entrepreneurs with the desire to grow. Winners will receive a cash prize, which in previous years has come in the form of a $25,000 check.
Maine Composites Alliance Supply Chain Database - MCA is constructing a multi-industry database of companies and organizations within the Maine composites supply chain. Click the link to learn more about the benefits your operation can enjoy by being part of this free resource, and click here to view the database itself.
Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership - From at-home craftspeople to high-manufacturing operations, MaineMEP can help your business overcome obstacles related to innovation, increasing profits, maximizing efficiency, and more.
New England Trade Adjustment Assistance Center - Financial help for import-impacted manufacturers looking to adjust their businesses and outmaneuver foreign competition
NIST Supplier Scouting Program is available at no-cost to any Maine company to either post for domestic supplier needs or respond to needs from other suppliers and government agencies.
UMaine Advanced Manufacturing Center Product Development - Consult, conceptualize, and prototype your product with Maine's flagship university. Then, materialize your vision through their network of over 260 private manufacturers across New England.
Grants and Loans
SBIR/STTR Technical Assistance Program (TAP) - If you’re in need of high-risk, early stage technology financing, MTI’s TAP program offers funding and technical assistance to help you craft your winning proposal for SBIR/STTR funding.