Economic & Community Development

Under the guidance of the Town Manager, the Office of Economic and Community Development seeks to develop strong relationships in our community.  We work to build a solid foundation of cooperation between business and community entities to keep Madison a great place to live, work and play.  Click here for more information on local business opportunities.  If you would like to locate a business in Madison, or have an idea of how our town can be an even better place to live contact us at 207 696 3334 or at .

Opportunity Zone

In 2019 the Town was designated as an Opportunity Zone by the federal government because of the severity of the economic downturn with the closure of Madison Paper. Opportunity Zones are designed to attract investment of capital gains for economic development. In June of 2021 Northeastern University completed a study of three Maine communities designated as Opportunity Zones. Their recommendations include leveraging these Opportunity Zones for development that will benefit the downtown and to draw young families to the area.  Click here to see the entire report.

Grants & Loans 

The Town of Madison is proud to offer a Revolving Loan Program and a Matching Grant Program.  Click here for a loan application.  Contact the Town Office at 696 3971 to find out when the next Matching Grants will be available. 

Since 2013 the Town of Madison has awarded over $125,000 in matching grants to local businesses to help with projects designed to make property improvements or otherwise enhance the ability to do business.  45 local businesses have received grants up to $5,000.  The Town is proud to be part of over $550,000 in local economic investments.   

Certified: Business Friendly

In November 0f 2014, the State Department of Economic and Community Development certified Madison as a 'Business Friendly Community'.  As one of only 30 municipalities in the state the designation sets Madison apart as dedicated to positive growth. 

"I want to congratulate the Town of Madison for its commitment to business excellence," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Madison is doing what it takes to partner with business in an effort to grow our economy, attract new investment and provide a better environment for job creation."

Regional Tourism Council

The Town of Madison has joined the Kennebec Valley Regional Tourism Council www.kennebecvalley.org to help promote local business and activities.  The Council is made up of businesses and municipalities from Augusta to The Forks and focuses a lot of attention on the Kennebec River and Route 201.  Madison has a lot to offer the tourism industry with the Lakewood Area, and access to the river for fishing and kayaking.  When you have the opportunity, check out the Madison Wave at www.youtube.com.

Tax Increment Financing

The Town of Madison and Backyard Farms entered into a Tax Incentive Financing (TIF) agreement in 2006.  This program captures the new property tax value associated with Backyard Farms, and sets aside the taxes paid on the new value. The taxes paid on the new value are “TIF Revenues.”

Read more: Tax Increment Financing 

Park & Playground

Since last fall, local residents have been enjoying the 7500 square foot playground area installed at the Main Street Park.  Through a series of grants and donations from local businesses and individuals, over $72,000 was raised to complete the project ahead of schedule.  Thanks to all those who helped with the installation; it is truly a community project we can be proud of.

Natural Gas Pipeline

As of April 15, 2014 Summit Natural Gas completed phase one of their 70 mile pipeline with service to UPM Madison (Madison Paper).  Gas is flowing to the mill and phase two will include building out the pipeline to local businesses and residents.

Natural gas is an alternative to heating oil and propane and requires converting heating systems.  Businesses and residents who may be interested in converting to natural gas can contact Summit Natural Gas of Maine for more details.

Comprehensive Plan Update 2014

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In 2014 updates to the Town of Madison Comprehensive Plan passed state review and were accepted by residents at the Annual Town Meeting.  The process of updating the plan included a series of 10 public meetings held in 2013 where residents gave input on a number of topics including the local economy, schools, government, historical and natural resources, recreation and transportation.  

Read more: Comprehensive Plan...

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