September 22, 2011
BY: Walter J. Elish, President & CEO of APP

Caribou, ME: In a continuing effort to enhance the economy in Aroostook County, the President of the Aroostook Partnership for Progress (APP) announced today a major effort to assist the County’s existing businesses. . “In addition to attracting new investment and stopping the out-migration of our young people, we want to ensure that all existing businesses continue to operate and flourish in the County,” says Walt Elish, President & CEO of APP.

APP along with its partners from the Loring Development Authority, Maine Public Service, NMDC, Presque Isle Industrial Council and the Southern Aroostook Development Corporation will coordinate their efforts, under the umbrella of APP; to implement a web based county-wide business expansion survey. The purpose of the survey is to learn more about the expansion plans and needs of Aroostook County businesses. The information received will then enable the economic development team to identify ways that they can support business growth in the County.

Since much of Aroostook County's future development depends on the ability of its existing businesses to thrive and expand, it is important for us to better understand the perceptions, challenges and plans of our businesses in Aroostook County, said Robert P. Clark, Executive Director of the Northern Maine Development Commission (NMDC).

“As important as it is to attract new investment into the County, it’s equally important to ensure the valued companies already located here continue to thrive and prosper,” says APP Board Chair Kris Doody. “This initiative is an important part of our overall commitment to economic development and improving the quality of life for Aroostook County.”

For more details about the survey, contact Brian Longstaff, 207-498-8736, blongstaff@nmdc.org or go to www.APPme.org.