About Cei (coastal enterprises, inc.)
Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI) is a nonprofit organization that operates as a community development financial institution (CDFI). The company's mission is to promote the growth of good jobs, environmentally sustainable enterprises, and shared prosperity in the communities it serves.
CEI was founded in 1977 by Ron Phillips and Bob McCallum with the goal of creating economic opportunities for Maine's coastal communities. Since then, CEI has expanded its reach to serve all of Maine and parts of New Hampshire.
The company provides financing and business support services to small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community organizations. CEI offers a range of loan products including microloans for startups or early-stage businesses, working capital loans for established businesses looking to expand or improve operations, commercial real estate loans for property acquisition or renovation projects, and equipment loans.
In addition to financing options, CEI also provides technical assistance services such as business planning support, marketing assistance, financial management training programs and access to networks of industry experts. These resources help entrepreneurs develop their skills and knowledge so they can grow their businesses successfully.
One area where CEI has made significant strides is in supporting environmentally sustainable enterprises. The company recognizes that environmental sustainability is critical not only for the health of our planet but also for long-term economic growth. To this end, CEI offers specialized financing options such as energy efficiency loans which help businesses reduce their energy consumption while saving money on utility bills.
Another key focus area for CEI is job creation. The company understands that small businesses are often the engines driving job growth in local economies. By providing access to capital and technical assistance services tailored specifically towards small business owners' needs - particularly those from underserved communities - CEI helps create new jobs while strengthening existing ones.
CEI's commitment to social responsibility extends beyond its core mission areas; it also prioritizes diversity equity inclusion (DE& I) initiatives within its own organization actively. It believes that fostering an inclusive workplace culture where everyone feels valued regardless of race gender identity sexual orientation age ability status etc., leads not only better employee engagement but also better outcomes overall.
In conclusion,Cei (coastal enterprises inc.) stands out among other CDFIs due to its comprehensive approach towards promoting economic development through job creation environmental sustainability entrepreneurship support DE& I initiatives etc.. Its unique blend of financing options technical assistance services makes it an ideal partner any entrepreneur looking grow their business while making positive impact on society at large!