Posts Categorized: Small Business Information

Should You Raise Your Prices?

Should You Raise Your Prices? text over an image hands working at a desk writing and using a calculator

As a small business owner, one of the biggest challenges you may face is determining when it’s time to raise your prices. Maintaining loyal customers and earning a profit can be a delicate balance. However, there are times when raising your prices is necessary to keep your business viable.  A winning price strategy includes knowing… Read more »

Preparation For Fairs, Festivals And Farmers Markets

A collage of photos of people and tents. Blue background with white type reading Fairs, Festivals & Farmers Markets: Preparing & Running a Booth, with a white version of the America's Maine SBDC logo.

Maine offers businesses year-round opportunities to display their products to potential customers. The state has 24 agriculture fairs, 70 festivals, 115 summer farmers markets, and 35 fall/winter markets. Participating in fairs, festivals, and farmers’ markets can be an excellent way for businesses to promote their products and increase sales. However, it’s essential to prepare your… Read more »

Nature-Based Tourism In Maine

A collage of photos of people doing outdoor activities. White background with navy blue type reading Nature-Based Tourism in Maine, with a red and blue version of the America's Maine SBDC logo.

Maine’s outdoor industry is a vital and thriving state economy component. With its rugged coastlines, dense forests, and stunning mountain ranges, Maine is one of the top five states in the country for the outdoor recreation industry. In 2022 alone, Maine attracted over 15 million visitors, adding around eight billion dollars in revenue to the… Read more »

Introductory Guide to Mobile App Development for Small Businesses

Interaction at a counter with two digital devices, looks like a transaction is occurring.

By: Maine SBDC Intern Ryan McNally From banking to social media, mobile apps have become a part of our daily routine. Some businesses only exist as apps, like Uber, and other businesses develop apps to enhance their existing services, like clothing stores. For small businesses, developing a mobile app may seem intimidating and costly, but… Read more »

Networking For People Who Hate It

Some of the best parts of networking are meeting people from all backgrounds, building your business, finding new clients, and getting your name out there, but it can also be an uncomfortable experience. If you’re an introvert, networking may be one of your least favorite activities. So here are some tips and tricks to make… Read more »

Multi-Level Marketing: Too Good To Be True?

“Work from home!”  “Earn $1,000 a week working one hour a day!” “Make money while you are on vacation!”  Too Good To Be True? Shakes, candles, leggings, vitamins, and makeup are just a few examples of direct sales products marketed as “start your own business” ventures.  With promises of top earners winning extravagant vacations and… Read more »