Applications for the latest round of grants for businesses that create new jobs are now being accepted according to a press release issued today from the City’s Housing and Economic Development Department.  Please apply by August 3, 2026 for the Business Assistance Program.

The Bsiness Assistance Program for Job Creation will provide reimbursement grants of up to $20,000. to for-profit Portland businesses to create net new jobs for low and moderate income individuals, at $10,000 per full-time job (or two part-time jobs).  This is a matching grant that is provided on a reimbursable basis for jobs created wthin nine months of grant approval.  This opportunity is funded by the Portland’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

“Net new jobs” are those that didn’t exist at the time of application to this program; they are not jobs that became available because an employee left or was let go.  Once approved, businesses will be required to provide evidence of job creation and will have up to nine months to fll the position.

Applications received by Monday, August 3, 2026 will be reviewed by the Portland Development Corporation at its meeting on August 20.  If available funds remain, applications received after the deadine will be considered on a rolling basis.

This program is designed to stimulate job creation for low and moderate income individuals working in Portland, support the Portland business community and create opportunity and vitality throughout the city.

Businesses that are interested should direct questions to Nancy Martin, Business Programs Manager, via email at nmartin@portlandmaine.gov or call 207 – 756-8019.