Mainebiz

W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 23 D E C E M B E R 1 , 2 0 2 5 F O C U S B A N K I N G / F I N A N C E / I N S U R A N C E Development. "It helps Maine busi- nesses find the help they need when they can't always figure out where to initially look. As the platform grows, so will our ability to create more access to funding, expanding Maine's economy." The process e process starts at the network's online portal (mainefundingnet- work.com) and moves rapidly to establish a direct connection to a funder or advisor. A business creates an account and fills out a common "match request" form. e application gathers information such as industry, funding goals and loca- tion to identify funding matches. e platform uses the infor- mation to identify the partner organizations best fitting the busi- ness's type and goal automatically. e match request process not only saves businesses the legwork of identifying alternative funders, it saves them the time required to fill out applications when they may not be a good match for the funder's specific criteria. Businesses receive potential funding options and/or business counseling resources, after which the funding organization reaches out to help. ey will be able to complete a common loan appli- cation. If a business is working with multiple financing provid- ers, they only need to submit one application. e funding partners work with the business to collect additional information needed for loans or equity financing. Collaborations Organizations can work with each other to create fund- ing packages for an applicant, potentially increasing the total amount of funding available to any given applicant, while facilitating reporting to financing organizations. Similarly, they can serve as resources for commercial banks and are familiar with creating public or private funding packages. If an applicant is not ready for funding, the network redirects the applicant to one of its advisory members, who help the business owner understand and prioritize the steps it should take to qualify for funding. C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » Working Together Toward a Common Goal Working Together Toward a Common Goal At The Dunham Group we're more than just a team of brokers, we're a collaborative force. Our open office environment allows our brokers to share knowledge and expertise so we can connect clients with the right opportunities for their growth. Put Our Collaborative Approach to Work for You. 2 Monument Square, Portland, ME | 207.773.7100 | dunhamgroup.com *Terms and conditions apply. *All programs are subject to credit and underwriting qualifications. Contact The County FCU for more information. Membership eligibility restrictions apply. Rooted in Maine Values. Focused on What's Next. For generations, Mainers have trusted us with their grit, their goals, and their future. It's a responsibility we carry with deep pride.

• Cover