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America’s SBDCs help make the dream of small business ownership a reality for more Americans — creating jobs and opportunities that build communities throughout the nation.
See how the Maine SBDC has served its communities.
Rural country store expands during the pandemic — Mills Market in Andover, Maine
A 4th generation family business, Mills Market is located in the heart of the Western Maine Mountains. When another local store closed due to the pandemic, business owner Patricia Cox decided to buy it. The store had the only gas pumps for 20 miles and would attract residents and tourists as well as recreational motorsport enthusiasts. Patricia worked with the SBDC to create a strong business plan and financial projections to secure funding to make the project a reality.
Rural Restaurant Named Maine's Best Burger by DownEast Magazine — Timberwolves BBQ in Mars Hill
Whether you find him cooking the "Best Burger in Maine" or working on his new sauce line (a COVID pivot) Michael Stiggle is a shining example of the great things happening in Maine. Michael turned to the SBDC to guide Timberwolves toward success.
DownEast Boot Camp accelerates development of businesses in Hancock & Washington Counties
The boot camp provided advising and education to prepare businesses to pitch for the chance to win prizes. A participant reflects: "We learned so much... and are thankful for the opportunity to work with such amazing advisors."
Nearly 20%
Nearly 20%
of clients are 35 years or younger, helping to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Helping install a lifelong love of reading — Maine's ReMo helps streamline literacy education
Educators Michelle DeBlois and Kathryn Lariviere launched ReMo, an app that brings educators and students together in the learning process. Their app streamlines the management associated with literacy education and helps students engage with books they love. They worked with the SBDC to develop a financial path forward. Michelle comments, "SBDC was instrumental in providing us with the expertise we needed to grow as a business and compete for funding, taking our company to the next level."
Pivoting and partnering for Success: Farmington Underground Escape Rooms
When COVID-19 hit, Joseph Musumeci and Mary Ellms had to close the doors of their escape room in Farmington, Maine. They worked with the SBDC to analyze their financial situation and develop viable solutions. Partnering with local downtowns, Farmington Underground began offering outdoor, walking treasure hunts. Small teams search for clues to solve a mission just as they would inside an escape room. This allowed them to continue to provide safe and fun entertainment for the whole family.
2,848
2,848
entrepreneurs advised in 2020, an 84% increase from the previous year.
Veteran-owned farm booms despite pandemic — Long Shot Revival Homestead in Orland, Maine
Veteran Joseph Brown and his wife started their family farm with just a few piglets, as a therapeutic outlet as he transitioned back to civilian life. Starting with just a few piglets, the SBDC helped him get his business organized and expand into other products such as poultry. When the COVID-19 pandemic put a national gridlock on meat processing, Long Shot Revival Homestead was ready to serve. This focus kept their farm booming despite the pandemic.
53% of clients are female, serving more women than in any other time in the history of the program
"You listened, you heard me, you supported and encouraged, you reminded, you inspired, you educated, and you guided." – Sally Jaskold, The Only Donut in Belfast
Ensuring business longevity through successful ownership transitions
Dan Daigle dreamed of owning his own powersports dealership. That's why he purchased Mountain Side Powersports in Wilton. Located near some of the best trails in Maine, this family-owned business sells and services snowmobiles, ATV's and other power equipment. After being denied financing, Dan reached out to the SBDC to reanalyze and reorganize his proposal. Dan's updated plan was approved. Since reopening in August, 2020, Dan has nearly doubled his employees and beat sales projections.
