• Maine Economic Growth Council
  Maine Development Foundation
  

We find ourselves in precarious and uncertain economic times. Our financial system is in turmoil and this has sent ripples through the world economy. In Maine, like across the nation this has translated to job losses, bankruptcies, foreclosures, and growing deficits. As these monumental challenges are addressed and as stimulus plans materialize, it is important to ground the decision making process. Despite the urgency, the long-term plan has not changed and the fundamentals of development and growth are more important than ever. Investments in higher education and R&D will raise incomes and create wealth. We need to continue investment in our workforce and in our infrastructure. We need to continue investments that grow the new economy while also supporting today's economy. The Measures of Growth report offers a means of weighing and prioritizing investment decisions. This report provides measures and targets for a number of economic indicators essential to a healthy and sustainable economy. This, in turn provides a decision maker with the ability to focus their efforts. Focus and prioritization are essential to manage a large influx of stimulus money and a seemingly endless list of needs.