Joshua Hrehovcik the photographer behind Retro Roadtripper, a photography and media company, reached out to the Maine SBDC for help marketing his business. He connected with Maine SBDC Business Advisor Anne Lancaster, who covers York County, and together they discussed his business plan and whether or not the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) would… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Recovery & Relaunch Resource Center
Rhona Beauty – Biddeford
Rhona Johnson Deah saw an unmet need in the marketplace when she couldn’t find on-trend beauty services specifically designed for style-conscious ethnic women in Maine. With this in mind, she left her job as a medical technician, apprenticed with several beauty salons, and obtained her full cosmetology license in 2021. She started her business by… Read more »
Little Mainer – Yarmouth
After retiring from teaching in 2020, Kathie Bradeen started using her crafting skills to print Maine-themed designs on toddler and babywear. She wanted an alternative to the ubiquitous “touristy” designs printed on low-quality clothing, to give as gifts to the babies and toddlers in her life. Frustrated by the lack of options she was finding,… Read more »
Martin’s Service and Sales – Andover
Tracy and Joe Greenwood are a dynamic duo and were excited at the opportunity to purchase Martin’s Service and Sales. With Tracy’s business skills and Joe’s mechanical skills, they hoped to win over Martin’s regulars and grow the decades-old business to its full capacity in 2022. Maine SBDC at CEI Business Advisor Alison Lane came… Read more »
Skipper Services – Portland
For 20 years Phillip Browne has been on the water, between sailing and lobstering, he has developed a deep love for the ocean and the way of life here in Maine. For years he’s watched the same routine boat tours and imagined a day when he could offer customizable experiences to others who wanted to… Read more »
Where’s the Money Hiding?!?
For most small businesses there is some form of funding necessary to get started. Your options are both broad but also limited depending on your type of business and what you bring to the table! We’ve put together a breakdown of things to consider when looking for funding, for more information check out the full… Read more »
Katharine Jane Jewelry – Morrill
There are so many reasons to shop small, especially when looking for a special or unique gift! Small-scale production means you’ll be supporting a specific small business and supporting a more local economy. Focusing in even further, you’ll be supporting a small business owner; like Katharine Mason, of Katharine Jane Jewelry!
Fish & Whistle – Biddeford
Fish & Whistle was conceptualized by husband and wife duo Jason Eckerson and Kate Hamm. They dreamed of a small neighborhood restaurant that could showcase the best of Maine’s seafood while remaining approachable and fun. Kate and Jason have worked in the restaurant industry for over 20 years and felt it was time to try… Read more »
Five Tips to Keep Customers Happy This Summer
Another busy summer is expected, providing both an opportunity and a challenge for small businesses across Maine. The ongoing labor shortage means that many businesses will again need to do more with less. Below are some basic customer service tips that can help businesses stand out.
Midcoast Comics – Brunswick
When Steven Thanos first began working with Maine SBDC at CEI Business Advisor Bradshaw Swanson, he had a vision of building a successful comic book store in downtown Brunswick. With a wide collection of current issues, historic collector’s editions, and graphic novels there would be something to attract both long-time fans and new hobbyists. Brad… Read more »