We are building a just, vibrant and climate resilient economy.
Founded in 1977,
Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI) is a Community Development Financial Institution that works to build a more equitable economy by growing good jobs, livelihoods and small business ownership, while advancing a just transition to a climate-resilient future.
About CEI
We take a holistic view of economic revitalization. We listen to individuals and businesses to inform our products, programming and advocacy in order to enable all people and communities to thrive.
Our Mission
To build a just, vibrant, and climate-resilient future for people and communities in Maine and rural areas. We do this by integrating finance, business expertise, and policy solutions in ways that make the economy work more equitably.
Our Strengths
Our Team
CEI staff and board members stand united and motivated by our mission. Each individual brings professional expertise, lived experience and empathy to their work and decision making.
Our Mission Impact & Fiscal Responsibility
The money we use to lend and invest comes from a variety of sources, including foundations, banks, businesses, individuals and federal funds. We seek partners that share our commitment to investing in people and places prevented from accessing the traditional financial system.
Our more than 45 years of experience has overturned the notion that mission-driven lending is inherently more risky than conventional practices, especially when paired with our supportive advising. This allows us to maximize impact, while managing risk.
Our Relationships
In Maine: We are a Maine-based organization, with strong personal and professional ties across the state. We partner with organizations, communities and legislators to improve access to capital and business resources across Maine through programs and policy advocacy.
Across the Country: As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), we are part of a network of over 1,000 organizations nationwide working to revitalize communities with low incomes and empower people to enter the financial mainstream. We regularly work with our peers and other nonprofits to develop and implement products and programs that expand access to capital. We also advocate for federal policies that drive resources to the communities and people that need them most.
Our Commitment to Economic Revitalization and Justice
We are proud of our history and roots in the War on Poverty and Civil Rights movement. We believe expanding economic opportunities for all is key to building a just and vibrant future.
Our Leadership in Sustainable Community Development
Our changing climate challenges rural communities nationwide, and in particular Maine’s coastal communities, and other local economies that are dependent on natural resource-based industries like fishing, aquaculture, farming, forestry, tourism and energy production.
We help these communities and natural resource-based enterprises become more resilient in multiple, interrelated ways, all that have a positive ripple effect. A mix of industry, sustainable business practices, policy advocacy, and energy production are part of our formula to adapt to changing environmental conditions. CEI is leading the way among community development lenders in tracking and reducing the impact our lending and business activities has on our environment.