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.
Kevin Browne Architecture – Falmouth
China Lake Provisions – China
Mike 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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
Ground Well Counseling – Bowdoinham
Ailish 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
Gillies Law – Portland
Jennifer Gillies completed her law degree at the University of Maine before dedicating nearly 10 years to serving Maine’s immigrant community as an immigration attorney at a local firm. During her time at the University, Jennifer was introduced to immigration law through the Refugee and Human Rights Clinic, igniting her passion for assisting asylum seekers and individuals navigating the complex U.S. immigration system.Read More
MainelyNP Primary Care – South Portland
Amy Brown, a dedicated nurse practitioner from South Portland, Maine, has always been passionate about healthcare. With over 20 years of experience in the field, she dreamed of providing more personalized and comprehensive care to her patients. This dream led her to establish MainelyNP Primary Care, a direct primary care practice offering a subscription-based model that allows for more meaningful patient interactions and better healthcare outcomes.
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