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Sponsored by: Cities of Biddeford and Saco
Updated: July 30, 2018 2018 Fact Book: Doing Business in Maine

Cities of Biddeford and Saco

Photo courtesy of Todd Burgess / YESAH Digital The connecting Mill Districts in Biddeford and Saco are the heart of the two communities’ downtowns and a catalyst for development.

Make Your Mark in Maine

The Biddeford and Saco region is an extraordinary place to build a business, raise a family, enjoy nature and realize your dreams. From establishing a new business, to fostering the growth and expansion of your current business, to helping an existing business thrive — the Biddeford and Saco region has the space and tools to help you find increased success.

Located at the mouth of the Saco River in southern Maine along the Atlantic Ocean — less than 20 minutes south of Downtown Portland, and less than two hours north of Boston, Massachusetts — Saco and Biddeford are home to a growing population, a revitalized and repurposed Mill District, a thriving economy, and ample outdoor opportunities, including fishing, hiking, biking and kayaking.

Historic Roots and the Bloom of a New Renaissance

In the early nineteenth century, Biddeford and Saco was known as a major textile manufacturing center for cotton weaving, shoe manufacturing and leather tanning. Now, with the revitalization of that original Mill District, the area is generating new maker spaces, restaurants, condos and apartments, office spaces and, in general, new ways of life — all bringing an excitement to the region that eclipses anything the area has seen in decades.

Biddeford — Leading the Way

Biddeford is one of the most talked-about places in Maine. Imagination and innovation are driving new business opportunities where everyone can make their mark. The city is investing in the addition of a municipal parking garage in the Mill District, free Wi-Fi on Main Street and funds for ongoing beautification projects to continue to foster a high quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors.

A rapidly changing and vibrant community, Biddeford has become home to artists, entrepreneurs, restaurateurs and so many new residents! Beautiful beaches, river and walkable parks, impressive mill buildings and lovely architecture — we offer something for everyone!

We have access to phenomenal educational opportunities and a highly skilled labor market with over a dozen colleges and universities located within a 50-mile radius, including the University of New England, located in Biddeford.

Saco — Friendly by Nature

Welcome to Saco — a best-in-class community featuring beautiful beaches, top-tier schools, a picturesque and bustling downtown, vast recreational opportunities, and (most importantly!) friendly neighbors.

Saco is home to a strong public-school system for pre-K through 8, and Thornton Academy middle and high school. Saco residents may attend Thornton Academy high school, a world-class private school, which also attracts boarding students from around the globe.

Known as a business-friendly community offering tax and training incentives as well as the opportunity for the highest quality of life for employees, Saco’s workability and livability is possible thanks to its proximity to Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, and its destination stop along the Amtrak Downeaster passenger rail and the Pan Am freight rail. Local travel options include ShuttleBus-Zoom, Turo and Uber.

Part of the Route 1 corridor in Saco was recently named a Federal and State Opportunity Zone. And Saco is indeed full of opportunity — with available restaurant and commercial business space, revitalized mill buildings on Saco Island, and available lots in the Industrial Park and the Mill Brook Business Park. The City of Saco is ready for you to make your mark.

Experience Biddeford and Saco

The Biddeford and Saco RiverWalk trail, overlooking the Saco River, enhances the walkability and connectivity of the two cities’ Mill Districts and Downtowns. The two cities also share the Biddeford and Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industries, as well as the Southern Maine Financing Authority. These agencies offer the tools you need to turn your idea into a viable business or help an existing business thrive in our community.

Join our energetic entrepreneurs, imaginative artists and innovative makers, all working hard to create an inspired future — our region is The Region to Make Your Mark in Maine.

City of Saco

Denise Clavette, Director of Planning and Development
(207) 282-3487 / dclavette@sacomaine.org
www.sacomaine.org / @sacomaine

City of Biddeford

Mat Eddy, Director of Planning and Development
(207) 571-1619 / mathew.eddy@biddefordmaine.org
www.biddefordmaine.org