Blog

Am I an Entrepreneur?

By: Jared Entwistle, Maine SBDC Intern

How do I know I’m an entrepreneur?

Am I an Entrepreneur - Blog Post

Thinking about starting a business? Have an idea but unsure if you have what it takes to be a business owner? Maybe you’re one of the many people who are tired of working for someone else? Whatever the case, before you start a business, you’ll want to ask yourself if it’s the right move for you. Below we’ve broken down some of the key attributes of successful business owners and entrepreneurs so that you can decide if this is the right move for you.

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Mills Market – Andover

Mills Market - Andover Maine Mills Market has been a staple of Andover since the 1890s. In its 4th generation of family ownership, this local country store provides a variety of grocery items as well as homemade prepared foods. Located in a prime location for tourists, many local customers have been coming into the market for years as well as their children and grandchildren.

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NEW: Marketing & Bookkeeping Specialists Now Available

Maine SBDC clients can access free, in-depth expertise in digital marketing and accounting and bookkeeping.

 

SBDC advising specialists group picture

Digital Marketing Specialists provide guidance in areas such as:

  • Websites & Ecommerce
  • Social media and email marketing
  • Advertising and measuring success
  • Digital marketing strategy specific to your business

Our Accounting & Bookkeeping Specialist provides guidance in areas such as:Read More

Small Business Support in the American Rescue Plan

Small Business Support in the American Rescue Plan - Maine SBDCOn March 12th, the third stimulus bill called the American Rescue Plan passed into law. The bill consists of $1.9 trillion to help people and businesses struggling with the pandemic. Here’s what you can expect from the bill for your small business.

Please note: Updates to these programs are likely as details are finalized. As always, Maine SBDC will keep you posted as details unfold. Sign up for our newsletter  or follow us on Facebook to get the latest updates. 

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The Only Doughnut – Belfast

The Only Doughnut Logo

Sally Jaskold, then owner of “The Only Doughnut” in Belfast, came to the Maine SBDC feeling stressed and overwhelmed:  Her successful farmer’s market bakery had morphed into a full-fledged brick-and-mortar operation with multiple employees, and she was feeling limited in her business-savvy skills.  Connecting with Business Advisor Alison Lane allowed her to take a deep breath and think proactively about her next steps. 

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Timberwolves BBQ – Mars Hill

Timberwolves BBQ - Mars HillMichael Stiggle is the heart and soul of Timberwolves Restaurant, a family-owned and operated barbecue restaurant and bar located just one mile from the Canadian border in the small town of Mars Hill. Whether you find him cooking the “Best Burger in Maine” (as designated by Downeast Magazine), working on his new barbecue sauce line, or sharing a story with his customers, Michael Stiggle is a constant reminder that there are amazing things happening in Aroostook County. 

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Employee COVID Vaccine Policy?

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Maine Law and MeRTEC
2-26-2021

Employee COVID Vaccine Policy - Maine SBDCCoronavirus cases continue to be reported throughout the state. As of mid-February the total number of cases in Maine has exceeded 43,000, with more than 1,500 hospitalizations and 650 deaths. The data shows that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, and many Maine employers and employees alike may be wondering whether an employer can require vaccinations. In other words, will businesses be able to require their employees to get the vaccine?Read More

Bravo Maine! – Portland, ME

Bravo Maine Logo - Maine SBDCMaine is well known for its unique and pristine food offerings, especially in Southern Maine. Justine Corbi wanted to join the Maine culinary scene in her own way: by creating a culinary learning experience open to children and adults at all stages of cooking experience. This would be an opportunity for anyone to learn how to cook delicious, authentic meals and delights featuring tastes from all over the globe. This was the inspiration for Bravo Maine! Read More

Sonny’s Gun & City Jewelry – Caribou, ME

Founded in 2011, Sonny’s Gun Shop is an Aroostook County adventure. They buy and sell a huge variety of quality pre-own and new goods. Whether it’s guns, jewelry, musical instruments, or video games, Sonny carries a range of products that meet the needs of a vast array of customers.Read More

Coastal Equipment Corporation – Portland

Corey Grobe - Coastal Equipment Corporation Corey Grobe’s years of experience in consulting and management were the perfect foundation for his next step: the purchase of a successful material handling equipment sales & service company Coastal Equipment Corporation in Portland, Maine. Coastal Equipment Corporation designs and manufactures special equipment and custom fabrication to solve their customer’s problems. Corey’s expertise in technology solutions, innovation, and efficiency are the perfect complement to a profitable, yet traditional business, in which he can apply his knowledge and take it to the next level. 

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