AUGUSTA – Gov. John Baldacci fielded the 50,000th business inquiry for the state’s Business Answers program Wednesday as Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner John Richardson and representatives from DECD celebrated the milestone.

Baldacci was on hand to return a phone call from Melonie Ross, who called to inquire about required state business licenses for restaurants as she prepares to open her own eatery in Avon.

“Starting and operating a business presents many questions for business owners, but there is help available to them through DECD,” said Baldacci. “Business Answers streamlines the question and answer process and it is just one of the ways we are keeping Maine business-friendly.”

Business Answers is managed through the DECD and provides information about doing business in Maine to current and potential business owners. Since the program’s Web site, www.maine.gov/businessanswers, was established in July 2003, Business Answers has received 50,000 phone calls, e-mails and Web inquiries for an average of more than 50 a day during the business week.

A toll-free number, (800) 872-3838, was launched in 1986, and information can also be accessed through business.answers@maine.gov.

“We are happy that Maine residents are utilizing this program and we are happy to provide support to the state’s small businesses,” said Richardson. “We are here for Maine’s business community and we want to streamline the business process so it is a positive experience for everyone.”

Along with licensing information, the program offers business startup kits, customized information packets on self-employment, hiring employees and required labor posters, and referrals to DECD and other sources of financial and technical assistance.