Partnership Pitfalls: When everyone is in charge, no one is in charge.
So… you and your best friend, brother, or spouse want to go into business together? Of course, you agree on everything right now, but what happens when you don’t? In many cases being realistic and pragmatic can be the kindest, most loving thing you can do for your partner and yourself.
We asked our very own Maine SBDC Business Advisor Chris Cole to speak to what happens when partnerships break down based on her experience from an employee’s point of view and as a co-owner of a business.
Part 2
An Employees’ Viewpoint:
Partnerships can consist of a financial backer with a skilled partner, people who have complementary skills, multiple members with equal abilities, spouses, family, or friends. With any of these scenarios, there should be a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of each partner. Read More

Portland, Maine –The Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC) has selected Raynor Large as the 2022 State Star. The award, given annually, recognizes a member of the Maine SBDC staff that has shown exemplary performance and a strong commitment to small business success.
Gino Breggia approached the Maine SBDC in July of 2021 seeking financial advice to be able to open his own sanitation business. A Portland native, Gino moved out of state to explore career opportunities. He spent time in New York, where he got his introduction to the world’s largest sanitation department, before spending many years in California. Upon his return home to Maine, Gino saw an opportunity to create a more customer service-friendly sanitation business, with a focus specifically on the construction and restaurant industries.
Trevar & David Haefele are a father/son team with a passion for the outdoors and a desire to increase sustainable accessibility to the natural beauty Maine has to offer. With diverse life experience in leadership, personal development, and coaching, both Trevar & David are in an excellent position to bring their passion to others.