Working as an admissions counselor at the University of New England, Jeremy Longchamp was in a 9-5 job for the first time in his career. But he quickly realized he wasn’t using the skillset he truly loved: coaching. Jeremy started a youth soccer camp company as a side business, and it quickly gained traction. He… Read more »
Posts By: Aaron Cohen
Gallery 35 – Westbrook
Jen and Julian Vance, owners of Gallery 35 in Westbrook, create laser engraved artwork ranging from layered wall décor and ornaments to bookmarks, maps, and custom pieces. What began as a creative experiment soon became a business.
Ruff Pine Dog Treats – Waterboro
Emily and Nicholas Conley built Ruff Pine Dog Treats in Waterboro after deciding they wanted better ingredients for their own dogs, Willow and Blue. What began as homemade treats for their pets quickly grew when family and friends saw how much their dogs loved them, inspiring the couple to turn the idea into a business.
Are Small Business Grants Really a Thing?
Short answer: Yes, but probably not in the way you think. One of the most common questions we hear at the Maine SBDC is: “How do I get a grant to start or grow my business?” It’s an understandable question. During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments distributed billions of dollars in grants to help businesses survive… Read more »
Oh, Grow Up! – Bangor
After many years in the restaurant industry and a decade in an office job, Andy Day was ready to build something of his own and reconnect with the energy of downtown. He missed interacting with the public and being part of Downtown Bangor’s vibrant business community. After months of planning and preparation, Andy opened Oh,… Read more »
Moose Country Graphics – New Sharon
Linda Lidstone turned a practical need into a growing business when she could not find affordable, customizable logo wear for her husband’s logging company. Moose Country Graphics began when Linda set out to create apparel in smaller quantities. Today, the New Sharon business provides embroidery, printed apparel, logo design, business cards, signs, banners, decals, and… Read more »
Crawford Farm Weddings & Events – Warren
Laurie Murphy and her husband Bart launched Crawford Farm Weddings & Events in Warren as an ambitious new chapter in retirement, combining their love of old architecture, Maine barns, and meaningful gatherings. Laurie retired last year after a lifelong career as a special educator, while Bart continues to work as a highly skilled contractor. Together,… Read more »
Fallen Oak Farms – Lebanon
When MacKenzie Cayford and Josh Bowker found themselves standing on a 20-acre Christmas tree farm in Lebanon, Maine, it felt like every conversation they had ever shared about their future was suddenly within reach. The property that would become Fallen Oak Farms was not part of their original plan, but it quickly became an obvious… Read more »
Maine Names 2026 State Star
The Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC) has selected Christina Oddleifson as the 2026 State Star. The award, given annually, recognizes a member of the Maine SBDC staff who has shown exemplary performance and a strong commitment to small business success. Christina (Tina) Oddleifson is a senior business advisor at the Maine SBDC at… Read more »
Saylor DesJardin – Flexit Cafe
After several years working in the coffee shop industry, Saylor DesJardin knew she enjoyed the fast pace, the customer relationships, and the sense of community that comes from serving familiar faces each day. She also had a clear vision to open her own brick-and-mortar coffee and bagel business.