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 an unprecedented crisis. Those programs created the impression that grants are a common source of funding for small businesses.
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, Grow Up!, a candy and novelty shop at 21 Central Street in Bangor, in January 2026.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 custom gifts for clients across the region.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, they bring their experience, energy, and vision to Crawford Farm, transforming the property into a wedding and event venue where they can share its beauty while helping guests create lasting memories.Read More
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 next chapter in both their love story and their shared vision for community.Read More
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 University of Southern Maine. She works with entrepreneurs and small business owners in Southern Maine to start, sustain, and grow their businesses. In the five years she has been with the Maine SBDC, she has spent over 4,500 hours advising almost 900 clients. She’s helped to start 65 businesses, create and save 222 jobs, and generate almost $10 million in capital. Read More
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.Read More
For decades, Aroostook County residents had to travel several hours to central Maine for their emergency veterinary needs, putting a significant financial strain on pet owners who are already struggling with high veterinary bills.Read More
After more than 25 years working in heavy industrial maintenance and reliability, Chris Brochu launched Proactive Reliability Services in Livermore Falls to help manufacturers prevent equipment failures and improve operational performance.Read More
For Ashley and Ray DeSilva, opening a restaurant was never a given. Ashley, an experienced chef, often joked that her number one rule was never to own the restaurant. But when a small cafe on Bailey Island became available, the opportunity felt too right to pass up. They had found the perfect size, the perfect setting, and the perfect moment to bring their long-simmering vision to life.Read More
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