The 2008 financial crisis and the 2020 pandemic recession left lasting marks on the Maine small business community. Yet, in each case, some Maine businesses found ways to not only weather the storm but adapt and grow in new directions.
Posts By: Aaron Cohen
Owlbear’s Rest – Westbrook
For Patty and Matt, Maine is where they built their family and careers. Now, they are preparing to open their dream business. Owlbear’s Rest brings people together through great games, good food, and a welcoming community. With an extensive library of board and roleplaying games, cozy seating, and a thoughtfully crafted menu featuring local producers,… Read more »
Evergreen Grooming – Hampden
For many years, Veronica Page, a Maine native, worked as a dog groomer for others, but she wanted the opportunity to provide better service on her own terms. She dreamed of opening a place of her own but didn’t know where to start.
Motivating and Managing a Small Team: Strategies for Small Business Success
Team motivation is not just a workplace perk. It plays a critical role in productivity, customer service, employee retention, and innovation. In a recent Maine SBDC webinar, Business Advisor Christina Dodge focused on how small business owners can build a motivated and accountable team with limited time and resources.
Kevin Browne Architecture – Falmouth
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.
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
Navigating 2025: Compliance Updates for Small Businesses
As we begin 2025, staying informed about compliance updates for small businesses is more important than ever. These regulatory changes can significantly impact your operations, and understanding them is key to staying compliant and prepared. During a recent Maine SBDC webinar, Certified Business Advisors Peter Harriman, Ali Lane, and Dan Umphrey shared insights about key… Read more »
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…. Read more »
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… Read more »