Defense Industry Maine
Defense Industry Maine (DIME) is an initiative of Maine International Trade Center. Part economic development agency, part think tank, and part grant/fiscal program, DIME is staffed by Maine’s preeminent international trade organization, because – at its core – defense is international and requires people with global experience and perspectives.
Whether a small business looking for opportunities to work with the US Department of Defense (DOD), a state or federal agency official, or a foreign government representative, DIME has the connections and experience to help you navigate a future supporting our nation’s defense and security.
Who We Are
DIME delivers technical and financial assistance to small businesses and communities to plan and carry out civilian responses to workforce, business, and community needs arising from defense actions and policies.
As an initiative of Maine International Trade Center, a public private partnership with leadership from Maine’s Department of Economic Development, DIME is a force multiplier to leverage public and private capabilities to:
- deliver public infrastructure and services to enhance the military mission
- achieve facility and infrastructure savings, as well as reduced operating costs
- increase military, civilian, and industrial readiness and resiliency
- support military families
How We Help
Defense Industry Maine (DIME) provides technical and financial assistance to small businesses throughout all Maine counties and communities that seek to engage in the national defense mission.
- Consultation and referrals to local, state, regional, and international partners
- Micro project funding for domestic business development – Maine Domestic Trade Expansion Program
- Micro project funding for international business development – STEP Financial Assistance Awards
- Advocacy for veteran’s employment, workforce development, manufacturing advancement through collaboration with other clusters and states
Nation's Most Diversified Defense Cluster
DIME represents the nation’s most diversified defense cluster. From socks and bolts to warships and satellites, DIME has a place for a broad range of manufacturers in the defense supply chain. Our goal is to strengthen Maine’s economy through increased business success throughout the sector.
Maine’s defense cluster includes:
- Shipbuilding
- Munitions
- Niche manufacturing
- Advanced textiles
- Foreign military sales though DOD
- Direct commercial sales through USDOS and USCS
- BRAC base redevelopment
- Experienced veteran and retiree workforce
- Installation and community partnerships
Our Partners
- Maine DECD
- New England Regional Defense Industry Collaboration (NERDIC)
- APEX Accelerators
- Maine Manufacturers Extension Partnership (MEP)
- Maine Technology Institute
- Maine Community College System
- University of Maine
- Roux Institute at Northeastern University
- University of Southern Maine
- Maine & Co.
- Live and Work in Maine
- Boots2Roots
