MERC AI
Free AI Training for Maine Businesses
MERC-AI helps Maine businesses build foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI) and explore how it can support day-to-day operations. Through a partnership with Coursera, MTI is offering free access to curated AI courses designed with small businesses and entrepreneurs in mind.
Eligible businesses can apply for up to three Coursera licenses, each providing four months of access to Coursera’s GenAI catalog. The content includes beginner-friendly introductions and more targeted learning paths for marketing, finance, customer service, and other business functions.
Licenses are available through Spring 2026, but space is limited.
Is Your Business a Good Fit?
To participate in MERC AI, your business must:
Be Maine-based
Headquartered in Maine or demonstrate a significant business presence in the state.
Operate within a targeted technology sector
Your product or service must align with one of MTI’s seven targeted technology sectors.
Be exploring innovative uses of AI
You don’t need to be an AI expert—just able to identify areas where AI might help your business grow, create new products and services, or operate more efficiently.
What’s Included
- Up to 3 Coursera licenses per business
- 4 months of access to Coursera’s GenAI catalog
- Tailored learning paths curated for Maine businesses
- Unlimited access to self-paced courses—from AI basics to real-world business applications
How to Get Started
- Fill out a short MERC AI interest form
- MTI will invite you to the MERC portal
- Complete a brief application to confirm eligibility
- Activate your Coursera licenses and start learning
Licenses are limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
MTI has a new online portal for submitting your interest in MTI support. Please read our guidance for navigating the new online portal (PDF).
Once you have reviewed the guidance document and are ready to proceed, you can access the online portal.
Are You Part of an Entrepreneurial Support Organization?
If you represent an entrepreneurial support organization (incubator, accelerator, 501c3 non-profit, etc) and are interested in accessing MERC AI on behalf of your organization, please contact Emily Braley at [email protected] to learn more.
Want to See What’s Available?
Curious about what’s included? Coursera’s GenAI catalog covers everything from foundational AI to tools for marketing, operations, and customer service.
Browse the GenAI catalog
Have questions?
Reach out to the MERC Program Coordinator, Emily Braley, at [email protected].
