Augusta, Maine – The U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to announce that Mary Ellen Barnes, executive director of the Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission, has been selected to receive the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2018 Economic Development Champion Award for Maine.

The Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission is responsible for assisting in public planning, project development and grant writing for community facilities and services. The Commission also focuses on economic development, public infrastructure, business financing, non-profit management, and business starts, growth and retention in Lincoln County.

“Among her many duties, Mary Ellen has done an extraordinary job of helping small businesses start and become successful in Lincoln County,” said Amy Bassett, SBA district director for Maine. “I have had the pleasure of working directly with Mary Ellen and she exemplifies collaboration, dedication and hard work. She is a truly deserving recipient of this award,” added Bassett.

Ms. Barnes was nominated for this award by Jaimie Logan, Governor’s Account Executive at the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development.

“I am really honored to receive this award from the SBA,” said Ms. Barnes. “The SBA is a great partner and together we produce a wide array of workshops and connect County businesses with helpful resources. It is flattering and humbling to receive this award,” added Barnes.

Ms. Barnes will be honored at the 2018 SBA Small Business Awards Celebration on May 1 at the Harraseeket Inn, 162 Main Street in Freeport. To register for the event, please use this link; https://conta.cc/2uycQOC . For more information about the event, visit the Maine District Office’s website www.sba.gov/me or contact William Card at william.card@sba.gov or 207-622-8555.