Success Stories

Client Success Stories

Owlbear’s Rest – Westbrook

For Patty and Matt, Maine is where they built their family and careers. Now, they are preparing to open their dream business. Owlbear’s Rest brings people together through great games, good food, and a welcoming community. With an extensive library of board and roleplaying games, cozy seating, and a thoughtfully crafted menu featuring local producers, Patty and Matt are creating an inviting space where play is encouraged.

The idea for Owlbear’s Rest took root after Patty’s battle with breast cancer in 2020. This was a turning point that made her rethink what truly mattered. Seeking a more fulfilling work-life balance, she decided to combine her passions of coffee, gaming, and community into a business that could make a difference in others’ lives as well.

New to business ownership, Patty and Matt knew they needed expert guidance to turn their vision into reality. They reached out to the Maine SBDC, where Business Advisor Peter Harriman helped refine their business plan and navigate the complexities of financial projections, retail logistics, inventory, and taxes. “Peter was incredibly knowledgeable and approachable. He helped me think through the trickiest parts of my business plan and made financial projections feel manageable,” Patty shared. At the same time, SCORE mentor Joe Michaud provided additional insights, giving them a broader range of expertise to draw from.

“The key for me has been having advisors in both the SBDC and SCORE. They had different perspectives and skills, which provided a greater breadth of knowledge and resources that I was able to utilize for different aspects of my business development,” Patty explained.

Their hard work, along with the support of their advisors, paid off. Owlbear’s Rest secured funding through Saco & Biddeford Savings and the Greater Portland Council of Governments, with restaurant consulting guidance from The B Frame.

Owlbear’s Rest is set to become a hub for gaming enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It will be a place where people can relax, explore new games, and connect with others.

Patty encourages other aspiring entrepreneurs to take advantage of the resources available. “The SBDC is one of the few ways to help your business that costs you nothing and will absolutely save immeasurable amounts of time and money.”

With a strong foundation, a dedicated team, and a growing community of supporters, Owlbear’s Rest is ready to delight guests for years to come.

Check out their Facebook, Instagram, and website for more on their grand opening in Spring 2025!

Evergreen Grooming – Hampden

For many years, Veronica Page, a Maine native, worked as a dog groomer for others, but she wanted the opportunity to provide better service on her own terms. She dreamed of opening a place of her own but didn’t know where to start.

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Kevin Browne Architecture – Falmouth

Kevin Browne is the founder of Kevin Browne Architecture (KBA), a residential architecture firm based in Falmouth. They focus on thoughtful and lasting designs that cater to their clients’ unique needs.

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China Lake Provisions – China

China Lake Provisions LogoMike Brown envisioned creating a welcoming space where the community could find high-quality, locally sourced food. That vision became China Lake Provisions, a deli, pizza, and sub shop offering a variety of healthy foods and local goods.

When Mike and his team first set out to open their business, they faced a major hurdle: securing financing. Unsure where to start, they turned to the Maine SBDC after a recommendation from their local chamber of commerce.

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Mandy’s Paw-sitive Strides – Patten

Mandy’s Paw-sitive Strides is a dog-walking business owned and operated by Mandy Lyman, a dedicated animal lover in Patton, Maine. Mandy provides 30-minute walks for dogs, ensuring they receive exercise and care while their owners are busy. Fully licensed and insured, Mandy has also participated in dog obedience classes to deliver top-notch service.

Mandy came to the Maine SBDC in April 2023 with a dream of starting her own dog-walking business. Mandy wanted to contribute to her community and earn her own income. Her initial goal was to attract 3 to 4 regular clients and work 4 to 6 hours weekly, but she needed guidance and resources to make it a reality.

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SimKit – Scarborough

It’s a well-known truth that the most successful businesses solve real-world problems. That is exactly what Dr. Jason Hine, Emergency Medicine Physician in Maine set out to do by forming his company, SimKit.

Unlike specialists, emergency physicians must be prepared to perform a wide range of procedures, often at a moment’s notice and under pressure. Some of these procedures are complex and rarely performed, which can lead to “skill decay.”

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Fore & Wharf – Portland

Dylan John and his fiancé Ellen turned their passion for style and community into Fore & Wharf, a boutique located in the heart of Portland. Specializing in thoughtfully curated men’s and women’s clothing, the shop embodies the charm and lifestyle of New England. Dylan’s vision was to create a store that celebrates coastal living while offering high-quality, unique pieces to be enjoyed by all.

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Arranged by Amy – Greater Portland

Amy Smith, an occupational therapist (OT) for nearly 30 years, saw a recurring need among her older adult clients. She noticed many with cognitive and physical challenges struggled to stay organized, impacting their independence and daily functioning. Realizing she was in a unique position to help, Amy decided to start her own professional organizing business in early 2023, Arranged by Amy.Read More

Jerome’s – Portland

Sasha Salzberg, Ian Daly, and Evan Carroll had a vision: to open an authentic New England sports bar in the heart of Portland. With combined expertise in bar management, design, and business management, the trio pooled their skills to make this dream a reality. However, their shared passion for bringing people together sparked the idea for Jerome’s.

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Ground Well Counseling – Bowdoinham

Ground Well Counseling logoAilish Kress has always had a passion for helping others. With a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Graduate Certificate in Adventure-based Counseling, she’s turning her passion into a career. Ailish set out to launch Ground Well Counseling, offering experiential counseling that integrates nature and therapy through garden-based techniques. Her innovative approach helps clients address issues of adjustment, trauma recovery, and emotional, relational, and communication skills.Read More