Dr. Ashley St. John and Dr. Nicole Heal founded Skills for Life to address a critical need for early childhood special education services in southern Maine. Their South Portland preschool provides specialized education and early intervention for young children with developmental disabilities. Both founders brought extensive experience to the venture. Nicole has worked in behavior… Read more »
Aubrey Jane launched Turning Tides Ocean Education in 2025 to give people more opportunities to learn directly from environmental scientists while exploring Maine’s coast. A marine biologist specializing in the ecology and physiology of marine invertebrates, Aubrey saw an opportunity to help people appreciate the smaller species that are often overlooked in favor of whales,… Read more »
Carlos Toledo purchased Heirloom Consignment in South Portland in November 2025, beginning a new career as the owner of a longtime Knightville neighborhood business. After spending two decades as a health scientist at the CDC, Carlos retired in April 2025 and began looking for a new challenge rooted in creativity and community.
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.
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.
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.
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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