New Business Opportunity Grant

The City of Lewiston's New Business Opportunity Grant is a municipally funded initiative aimed at supporting the launch and growth of new small businesses within Lewiston, Maine. Administered by the Economic & Community Development Department, the program provides grants of up to $15,000 to for-profit businesses that have either opened within the last year or are in the start-up phase. Additionally, the program extends eligibility to existing Lewiston businesses launching a substantially new line of business or businesses relocating to Lewiston for the first time. Eleven total grants are expected to be distributed by June 30, 2026. The primary objective of the program is to foster local economic development by reducing barriers for early-stage businesses. Eligible expenditures for grant funds include working capital, rent, payroll, utilities, equipment purchases and repairs, inventory, marketing, professional services, and expenses necessary to bring a business into compliance with municipal codes. However, funds cannot be used for activities such as debt refinancing, back taxes, legal settlements, personal expenses, or any items already paid for by other grants or loans. Notably, the grant allows up to $5,000 in advance disbursement for working capital, with the remaining funds reimbursed upon documented eligible spending. Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, including having fewer than 20 employees, being in good standing with local government (no tax liens, legal judgments, or zoning/code violations), and being independently owned. The program is explicitly not open to certain business types, such as franchises, cannabis-related businesses, liquor stores, adult entertainment venues, pawn shops, and check-cashing agencies. Home-based businesses such as childcare providers, professional services, and marketing consultants may qualify, provided they meet other program criteria. All applicants must also be lawfully present in the U.S. and provide supporting documentation such as a business plan, budget, Maine-issued photo ID, and applicable licenses or permits. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but reviewed in scheduled cycles. There are seven committee review dates scheduled between November 2025 and May 2026, with the next upcoming deadline being November 26, 2025. Applicants are typically notified of the committee's decision within three working days of the review date. The program encourages early application, as funds are limited and disbursed in the order of completed submissions. Training sessions are offered to guide potential applicants through the application process, including document preparation and business planning. Sessions have been scheduled at multiple locations throughout Lewiston, with additional events to be announced. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend one of these sessions or reach out directly to City staff for assistance. Questions may be directed to the Economic & Community Development team via email at ECDGrantProgram@LewistonMaine.gov or by phone at 207-513-3126. If approved, recipients will sign a grant agreement and are required to submit receipts and payment proof within seven days of each expense. A follow-up meeting with city staff is required within 45 days to assess progress and provide additional support. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Lewiston’s local economy and foster long-term business sustainability.

Clearly align budget with use; incomplete applications are ineligible; ask for help early.