The Economic Development program is responsible for the following activities associated with the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians in Houlton:

  • Investigate new business opportunities
  • Ensure HBMI businesses are compliant with state & federal tax, regulatory and audit requirements and compliance including payroll, bank reconciliations and permitting
  • Lead or assist new business development efforts
  • Identify ongoing business facility maintenance needs, costs and ultimately, project management for those efforts
  • Identify opportunities for the benefit of tribal members such and mortgage, home improvement and consumer lending options offered through Four Directions Development Corporation and Penquis Capital.
  • Promote HBMI business interests in the Houlton community
  • Recommend appropriate business legal structures for HBMI businesses to minimize liability risk and maximize business decision-making efficiency and effectiveness
  • Investigate potential business partnering opportunities
  • Promote ideas to increase interest income
  • Recommend efficiency improvements and cost savings ideas
  • Monitor business activities, energy-related, etc. being undertaken by other tribal nations
  • Maintain open communications with economic development departments at other tribes
  • Access business-related grant opportunities for tribal business development
  • Maintain relations and communication with State and Federal Agencies such as the EDA, SBA, USDA, IRS, etc.
  • Investigate potential new banking relationships
  • Ensure communication with other HBMI departments, particularly Real Estate and Planning
  • Manage existing businesses where appropriate (e.g., Rollerama)
  • Investigate financing options for potential new business ventures
  • Represent HBMI on various boards of directors and committees including Four Directions (e.g., current President) and USET Economic Development Commitee
  • Develop and implement board structures and membership for new businesses
  • Conduct business board meetings