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
Ferda Farms – Brunswick
Acadia Insulation – Lewiston
After years of working for a large insulation contractor, Wesley (Wes) Grover decided it was time to start his own business. He was dissatisfied with the profit-driven approach of his previous employer. A US Army veteran, Wes wanted to prioritize customer service and employee well-being in his own venture, aiming to build a workplace culture based on fairness, inclusivity, and respect.Read More
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
Handful Studios – Portland
Julian Erickson-Watson’s love for pottery began during his senior year of college when he decided to enroll in a pottery class. Not knowing what would come of it, he chose to follow this passion to see where it would lead him. Eventually, Julian relocated to Maine, where he discovered the rich pottery community in Portland. Julian set out to put down roots by opening his very own pottery teaching studio. That’s when he turned to the SBDC!
Sip House – Freeport
In the spring of 2023, Tammy Nonni took the bold step of becoming a business owner by acquiring a cafe in downtown Freeport. Over the next few months, she undertook numerous renovations and changes, culminating in the re-launch of the establishment as Sip House. Tammy envisioned the cafe and smoothie shop as a welcoming and safe space for the Freeport community and visitors to come together. Leveraging her background as an integrative health coach and herbalist, she curated a unique menu featuring local organic drinks and bites.Read More
Palette Crêperie – Monhegan
Originally hailing from Morocco and residing New York City, Redwane Gatarny, a trained chef, embarked on a journey back to his culinary roots. After seven years in public health, he decided to return to his passion for good food with a dream of sharing the authentic flavors he remembers from his childhood. He wanted to open a seasonal food trailer on Monhegan Island.Read More
Ease Massage & Manual Therapy – Saco
Stefani Sellers has always been passionate about healing and helping others. This is why she launched her business, Ease Massage & Manual Therapy, in 2022. Ease is Maine’s only nationally board-certified medical massage therapy practice certified in manual lymphatic drainage. She provides her clients with effective healing solutions tailored to their individual needs including massage therapy, manual therapy, manual lymph drainage, and Reiki.Read More
Main Street Provisions – Waterville
Zachary Brann’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his passion for locally sourced food and beverages, coupled with a love for the Waterville area where he grew up and plans to raise his family. Now, he proudly contributes to Waterville’s revitalization through his new business, Main Street Provisions.Read More