Small businesses are the lifeblood of the Maine economy. The governor knows this, and that is why Gov. Baldacci wants to make Maine the nation’s “Small Business Capital.”

The Creative Economy Council is the vehicle through which this change will come about. Focusing resources on building new opportunities for entrepreneurs and increased investment in research and development, the governor’s plan illustrates the new Democratic ideology of focusing on small business development and support.

The governor is especially committed to creating business-friendly environments for small businesses to grow. In particular, he is focusing economic development in parts of the state hardest hit by the recession.

The governor created Pine Tree Zones, targeted areas of the state that offer tax incentives to businesses for moving and doing business there. The governor has managed to create 2,800 jobs this year and bring in 50 new companies. The jobs are continually growing in these areas, and Pine Tree Zones are quickly providing much-needed jobs for hardworking Mainers.

The governor is always looking for ways to strengthen and build Maine’s economic future. Relentlessly pursuing innovative ideas, the governor’s unique approach to job creation is already bearing fruit. He believes the ingenuity and hard work of Maine’s people will continue to attract small businesses to Maine.

Mark Coursey, Auburn