JumpstartME Information Session

Join LA Metro Chamber of Commerce President + CEO Shanna Cox for an overview of the JumpstartME contest. Attendees will hear from Michael Dostie of the Downtown Lewiston Association about the goals and purpose of the contest. Shanna will cover the timeline and process, the application, FAQ?s, and moderate questions from attendees. 

About JumpstartME

To supplement and expand the business and economic growth in the Downtown Lewiston business district, the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Lewiston Association, City of Lewiston, and our collaborators are presenting a competition with a prize package to incentivize and attract high quality, viable businesses that draw from and contribute to foot-traffic and vibrancy. JumpstartME mitigates barriers to entering the local market for startups and businesses looking to relocate or expand into the district through a prize package that includes a rent-free year in a prime real estate location, marketing expertise and assistance, and support from legal and accounting professionals. 

Program Goals: 

• Establish a successful  brick and mortar business in the Lewiston Downtown Business District through removing barriers for a successful start up, relocation, or expansion of a business.
• Encourage successful businesses and innovative entrepreneurs to explore and consider the benefits of locating in downtown Lewiston. 
• Further develop the vibrancy and synergy of the downtown business district's existing dining and nightlife options available to customers in the district with a complementary business profile. 

Incentives

• Free rent at 120 Lisbon Street, a highly desirable & centrally located building in Downtown Lewiston's Business District for one year,.
• Marketing and branding support and expertise from a nationally recognized firm, valued at $50,000. 
• Professional Services from attorneys and accountants, valued at $4,000. 
• Access to and support navigating business incentive loan programs from the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and the City of Lewiston 
• Personal coaching and mentoring from business support professionals at the Lewiston Auburn Chamber of Commerce and assistance navigating the small business and entrepreneurial support ecosystem.