MTI Supporting Innovation in Maine:
- Tracy Scheckel
- Apr 9, 2025
- 2 min read
My Experience with MTI and the MERC Program
Through my work with the Union River Center for Innovation (URCI) in Ellsworth, I’ve had the chance to explore the wide range of resources available in Maine to help startups and entrepreneurs grow. Among the most impactful is the Maine Technology Institute (MTI) - a major force in advancing innovation across the state. In fact, MTI played an integral role in the launch of URCI a decade ago.
As MTI’s website explains, it supports Maine’s innovation economy by “offering grants, loans, equity investments, and services to businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs.” Since its founding in 1999, MTI has invested over $365 million in nearly 3,800 projects across all 16 Maine counties.
A Hidden Gem: The MERC Program
A colleague recently pointed me toward MTI’s MERC program - short for the Maine Entrepreneurial Resource Corps. MERC is a curated directory of business support consultants across a range of specialties—from finance and IT to PR and engineering. Entrepreneurs already involved in MTI programs can interview and hire consultants from the MERC database, with MTI covering 50% of the project cost (for engagements up to three months).
I may be biased - TS2 was recently accepted into MERC for marketing, branding, grant writing, and PR services - but I genuinely love the design of this program. It not only supports innovators working to bring new ideas to market, but also highlights and uplifts Maine-based service providers who can help them along the way. There’s a nice symmetry in that.
Thinking About Joining MERC?
If you’re a Maine-based professional working in one of MERC’s designated fields, you might want to apply. There’s no cost to join, and the process is fairly straightforward. You’ll need:
A business profile
A LinkedIn and website
Two written references
A basic rate sheet
Proof of Maine registration with the Secretary of State
Full details are available here.
Just 24 hours after I was approved, I received two “New Project Available” alerts in my inbox. I’ve already submitted my interest in one that aligns with my strengths—an encouraging sign of how active and well-matched this program can be.\
Is MERC the Right Fit?
In my view, MERC is ideal for nimble operations and solo professionals who can provide focused, short-term support to growing companies. For my own practice, which is centered on helping organizations extend their capacity without hiring full-time staff, it’s a perfect match.
If you think your services align, I highly recommend checking out this video overview, and reaching out to Emily Braley, MERC Program Coordinator. She’s been a fantastic resource - not just during the application process, but also in helping me understand how MTI’s programs connect with broader economic development efforts in our state.
Let’s Connect
If you want to learn more about my work with MERC, URCI, promoting your own business, or just to chat about opportunities to support start-ups in Maine, I’d love to connect. Supporting innovation is a team sport - and Maine’s got a great team.
