The Maine Small Business Development Center said Friday that Director Mark Delisle plans to retire early next year.
Delisle, who has led the organization since 2008, plans to step down on Feb. 1, 2027.
He is credited with guiding the Maine SBDC through a period of significant growth and change, strengthening the statewide network, expanding partnerships and supporting startups.
Since 2008, the Maine SBDC team has assisted nearly 25,000 individuals, helped launch almost 2,500 new businesses, contributed to the creation or retention of more than 14,000 jobs and facilitated access to nearly $710 million in funding, the organization said.
Looking ahead, the Maine SBDC and the University of Southern Maine are launching a nationwide search for the organization’s next director.
“We are seeking a collaborative, forward-thinking leader with a strong commitment to economic development, partnership building and small business success, the organization said.
It started accepting applications on Thursday and interviews are expected to take place in October and November “to ensure a seamless leadership transition before Mark’s retirement in early 2027,” the organization said.
