Welcome to the Department of Economic and Community Development's Web site.

DECD serves as the umbrella organization to the offices of Tourism, Business Development, the International Trade Center, Community Development, Film and Innovation and Science. In addition, we are proud of our Maine Made program, which is recognized worldwide for its quality and integrity. These offices are responsible for much of the job creation throughout the state; from trade missions to block grants, our economic development programs provide the foundation for businesses to grow and help attract visitors to our beautiful state.

Maine is known for its many assets, including pristine forests and lakes, our livable cities and our entrepreneurial spirit. We also have an impressive "green" job growth rate, and emergent innovation-based economy. As Commissioner, I am proud of Maine's on-going efforts to harness our regions' unique strengths and our ability to weather the storm of economic uncertainty.

DECD's top priority is to create economic opportunity for the people of Maine. Our key role is to help make this a reality and to bring prosperity to all areas of the state. Governor Baldacci's recently expanded Pine Tree Development Zone initiative is a tool that is helping us accomplish this.

We look forward to making a difference and to getting the good news out about all that Maine has to offer.

Sincerely,

Thaxter Trafton