Rochelle Albert has spent years honing her craft in bartending and catering, learning the ins and outs of creating memorable experiences and delicious cocktails. In 2023, her priorities shifted significantly when she gave birth to her son. As a single mother, she wanted to find a way to be with her son full-time and provide for her family in a meaningful way. This is why she started Eido Bar Company. Read More
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4Health Family Medicine – Windham
Su-Anne Hammond is a lifelong Mainer who has spent the last 20 years providing primary care to families in Southern Maine. She has always prioritized creating genuine doctor-patient relationships that allow her to treat the whole person. She envisioned opening her own private practice that would offer affordable, accessible, and direct care to patients. This is why she founded 4Health Family Medicine in Windham, offering a refreshing alternative to the conventional healthcare system. Read More
Ferda Farms – Brunswick
Established in 2018, Ferda Farms is an oyster farm nestled along the picturesque New Meadows River in Brunswick. Committed to sustainable and responsible farming practices, Ferda Farms specializes in cultivating fresh, high-quality Bombazine Oysters that capture the essence of the pristine Maine waters. Business owners Maxwell Burtis and his father Chris are experienced mariners with a deep-rooted connection to Maine’s working waterfront and coastal environment.Read More
Acadia Insulation – Lewiston
After years of working for a large insulation contractor, Wesley (Wes) Grover decided it was time to start his own business. Wes, a U.S. Army veteran, was dissatisfied with the profit-driven approach of his previous employer. He wanted his new venture to prioritize customer service and employee well-being. His goal was to create a workplace culture grounded in fairness, inclusivity, and respect.
Cybersecurity Basics for Small Businesses
Part 6 of the “Things we wish we knew” Blog series
By: Tina Oddleifson, Business Advisor
Most small business owners don’t spend time worrying about cybersecurity attacks. Who would want to pick on your small business anyway, right? Wrong! As business advisors in Maine, we have heard many stories from our clients about attempts and attacks on their businesses. In some cases, this leads to the permanent closure of the business.
According to the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) established by Congress in 2018, small businesses are three times more likely to be targeted by cybersecurity attacks than larger businesses. Over 80% of ransomware attacks are targeted at small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), and 60% of businesses who experience a ransomware attack cease operations entirely within 6 months. Read More
Maine SBDC Recognizes Newly Certified Business Advisors
The Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC), a state-wide program that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses, recognized two business advisors who received their Core Competencies Certification from the New England Professional Development (NEPD) group on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Newly certified advisors include Chase Nelson (Maine SBDC) and Jodi Cordes (CEI’s Women’s Business Center).
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Interstate Bowling Center & Town Line Sports Grille – Hallowell
Donna Oliver & her husband, Hurley, are longtime bowling enthusiasts with 25+ years of experience working in the industry – having met at the original Interstate Bowling Center in 2000. When the owner of Sparetime Recreation and Ground Round Sports Grille in Hallowell decided he wanted to retire, Donna was the perfect fit to take over the business. She saw ownership as the natural progression from her role as manager and longtime employee.Read More
New England Iron Pollo – Bangor
When Alberto Mateo moved to Maine in 2022, he brought extensive experience in the food industry. After experiencing Maine’s popularity as a foodie state, Alberto wanted to start a business that celebrated Maine’s rich history as the former chicken capital of the world (a commonly forgotten fact) and also incorporated his heritage with Caribbean Latino flavors. His new business, New England Iron Pollo in Bangor, brings these elements together in a flavorful menu specializing in cast iron-broiled chicken.Read More
Hurt & Co – Scarborough
Melinda Hurt has been a physical therapist for over a decade and a business co-owner for several years. As she considered her future, she wanted something more and decided it was time to start out on her own. Melinda knew she’d need help navigating the complexities of transitioning away from her partnership and support bringing her new vision to life. At the recommendation of a friend and fellow business owner, she reached out to the Maine Small Business Development Center (SBDC).Read More
Things to Know Before Signing a Lease
Part 5 of the “Things we wish we knew” Blog series
By: Tina Oddleifson, Business Advisor
You’ve got a business idea that you’ve been thinking about for a while and suddenly you see the perfect location. You’re convinced your business will not work anywhere other than in that adorable shop on the corner of Main St. You’re envisioning streams of happy customers leaving your store, delighted by what they found inside. You call the realtor, do some quick calculations, and before you know it you’ve signed a multi-year lease.
Sometimes in our excitement or fear of missing out, we forge ahead before thinking through one of our biggest financial decisions. This is why it’s in our top five in our “Things We Wish We Knew” blog series, where we highlight common mistakes we see! Only a thorough and realistic set of financial projections and an understanding of your cash flow and break-even point can help you determine if it’s the right financial move. Beyond the financial impact of a lease, be aware of these ten costly mistakes before you sign.Read More