The outdoor industry is uniquely positioned to support Maine’s vision of a thriving, environmentally responsible economy, one that offers good-paying jobs and an unmatched quality of life. Maine’s outdoor industry is made up of outdoor gear manufacturers, retailer, guides and outfitters, sporting camps, campgrounds and ski, golf and wilderness resorts, adventure filmmakers and more. Outdoor recreation is 4.2% of Maine’s economy, more than double the national average. Growth in participation across the US presents opportunities to reach new markets.
The Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation is charged with leveraging Maine’s assets and outdoor heritage to grow the outdoor recreation economy and build Maine’s outdoor brand as part of a coordinated effort with partners from the public and private sectors.
Read the Market Profile for Outdoor Recreation Manufacturing (PDF)
Resources
American Outdoors - Since 1989, America Outdoors has worked to ensure outfitters in the outdoor recreation industry have a voice. Today, they are the one-stop resource for outfitters, leading the industry in public policy.
Adventure Travel Trade Association - The Adventure Travel Trade Association is a vital leadership voice and partner for the adventure travel industry around the world.
Maine Center for Entrepreneurs Top Gun Program - A 15 week learning experience and competition for entrepreneurs with the desire to grow. The winner(s) gets a check for $25,000.
Maine Outdoor Brands is a member-driven alliance of outdoor product makers, experience providers, retailers and organizations invested in strengthening Maine’s $3 billion outdoor recreation economy.
Outdoor Foundation is dedicated to getting people outside for their health, the health of communities and the health of the outdoor industry.
Outdoor Industry Association Research & Tools - Navigate the latest outdoor industry news, studies, & strategies to keep your operation up-to-date on the latest information.
Outdoor Recreation Roundtable - The largest American coalition of outdoor recreation trade associations. Access an events calendar, outdoor industry statistics, news, and learn more about their dedication to promoting growth in the U.S.’s outdoor recreation industry via their website.
Grants and Loans
U.S. Department of Transportation’s Recreational Trails Program (RTP)
RTP is an assistance program of the U.S. DOT’s Federal Highway Administration. RTP provides funds to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for motorized and non-motorized recreational trail uses. Please note that only municipalities, other subdivisions of state government, and non-profit organizations may be eligible for this funding. This program is administered by the Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) at the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry. For more information on this program, visit the Recreational Trails Programn website.