After years of working for a large insulation contractor, Wesley (Wes) Grover decided it was time to start his own business. He was dissatisfied with the profit-driven approach of his previous employer. A US Army veteran, Wes wanted to prioritize customer service and employee well-being in his own venture, aiming to build a workplace culture based on fairness, inclusivity, and respect.
For guidance on starting this new business, Wes turned to Business Advisor Christina (Chris) Dodge at the Maine SBDC at CEI. Together they worked on setting up his LLC. Chris guided Wes as he drafted his business plan and accompanying financial projections. These proved helpful as he pitched his business to investors. In addition to a significant owner’s investment, Wes was able to secure the funds needed to launch his business.
Reflecting on his work with the Maine SBDC, Wes comments, “Chris is very knowledgeable, engaging, and offers excellent direction and advice. I would not have been able to build this business as quickly as I did without her knowledge and input.”
Located in Lewiston, Wes officially opened Acadia Insulation in February 2024. Acadia Insulation is veteran-owned and operated and specializes in batt, blown-in, and spray foam insulation. They work primarily with builders and contractors in the new construction markets. With a team of four employees, Acadia Insulation has already secured a significant workload equivalent to 25% of its annual goal for the first year.
Wes’s commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering a positive work environment has set the stage for future growth and expansion. He plans to diversify services and double revenue in the second year.He provides industry-leading pay and benefits and a positive work culture, which will help him recruit and retain the labor he needs to grow.
He comments, “By owning a small business, I can set our values and standards to exceed our customers’ expectations…We are not just a subcontractor to our customer, we are a member of their build team.”