Blog

Cybersecurity Basics for Small Businesses

Part 6 of the “Things we wish we knew” Blog series

By: Tina Oddleifson, Business Advisor

Decorative photo representing cybersecurity on phone and computerMost small business owners don’t spend time worrying about cybersecurity attacks. Who would want to pick on your small business anyway, right? Wrong! As business advisors in Maine, we have heard many stories from our clients about attempts and attacks on their businesses. In some cases, this leads to the permanent closure of the business.

According to the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) established by Congress in 2018, small businesses are three times more likely to be targeted by cybersecurity attacks than larger businesses. Over 80% of ransomware attacks are targeted at small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), and 60% of businesses who experience a ransomware attack cease operations entirely within 6 months. Read More

Maine SBDC Recognizes Newly Certified Business Advisors

The Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC), a state-wide program that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses, recognized two business advisors who received their Core Competencies Certification from the New England Professional Development (NEPD) group on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Newly certified advisors include Chase Nelson (Maine SBDC) and Jodi Cordes (CEI’s Women’s Business Center).
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Interstate Bowling Center & Town Line Sports Grille – Hallowell

Interstate Bowling & Town Line Sports Grille LogoDonna Oliver & her husband, Hurley, are longtime bowling enthusiasts with 25+ years of experience working in the industry – having met at the original Interstate Bowling Center in 2000. When the owner of Sparetime Recreation and Ground Round Sports Grille in Hallowell decided he wanted to retire, Donna was the perfect fit to take over the business. She saw ownership as the natural progression from her role as manager and longtime employee.Read More

New England Iron Pollo – Bangor

New England Iron Pollo LogoWhen Alberto Mateo moved to Maine in 2022, he brought extensive experience in the food industry. After experiencing Maine’s popularity as a foodie state, Alberto wanted to start a business that celebrated Maine’s rich history as the former chicken capital of the world (a commonly forgotten fact) and also incorporated his heritage with Caribbean Latino flavors. His new business, New England Iron Pollo in Bangor, brings these elements together in a flavorful menu specializing in cast iron-broiled chicken.Read More

Hurt & Co – Scarborough

Hurt & Co LogoMelinda Hurt has been a physical therapist for over a decade and a business co-owner for several years. As she considered her future, she wanted something more and decided it was time to start out on her own. Melinda knew she’d need help navigating the complexities of transitioning away from her partnership and support bringing her new vision to life. At the recommendation of a friend and fellow business owner, she reached out to the Maine Small Business Development Center (SBDC).Read More

Things to Know Before Signing a Lease

Part 5 of the “Things we wish we knew” Blog series

By: Tina Oddleifson, Business Advisor  

Decorative imagery of a clipboard with a lease. Someone is pointing to the lease with a pen and someone is pointing at a section of the release with their fingerYou’ve got a business idea that you’ve been thinking about for a while and suddenly you see the perfect location. You’re convinced your business will not work anywhere other than in that adorable shop on the corner of Main St. You’re envisioning streams of happy customers leaving your store, delighted by what they found inside. You call the realtor, do some quick calculations, and before you know it you’ve signed a multi-year lease.   

Sometimes in our excitement or fear of missing out, we forge ahead before thinking through one of our biggest financial decisions. This is why it’s in our top five in our  “Things We Wish We Knew” blog series, where we highlight common mistakes we see! Only a thorough and realistic set of financial projections and an understanding of your cash flow and break-even point can help you determine if it’s the right financial move. Beyond the financial impact of a lease, be aware of these ten costly mistakes before you sign.Read More

Handful Studios – Portland

Logo for Handful Studios in PortlandJulian Erickson-Watson’s love for pottery began during his senior year of college when he decided to enroll in a pottery class. Not knowing what would come of it, he chose to follow this passion to see where it would lead him. Eventually, Julian relocated to Maine, where he discovered the rich pottery community in Portland. Julian set out to put down roots by opening his very own pottery teaching studio. That’s when he turned to the SBDC!

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Sip House – Freeport

Sip House LogoIn the spring of 2023, Tammy Nonni took the bold step of becoming a business owner by acquiring a cafe in downtown Freeport. Over the next few months, she undertook numerous renovations and changes, culminating in the re-launch of the establishment as Sip House. Tammy envisioned the cafe and smoothie shop as a welcoming and safe space for the Freeport community and visitors to come together. Leveraging her background as an integrative health coach and herbalist, she curated a unique menu featuring local organic drinks and bites.Read More

How to Reach Your Customers

Part 4 of the “Things we wish we knew” Blog series

By: Tina Oddleifson, Business Advisor  

“If you market to everyone, you’ll market to no one”  – Famous Marketing Guru

Decorative imagery - hand with magnifying glass over wooden cutouts of people - identifying target marketAs business advisors, we review a lot of business plans. One thing we see regularly are marketing plans with vague references to social media and a website but with very few details. Not having a detailed marketing plan is a costly mistake — because marketing is the engine that drives your sales. That’s why it’s in the top five of our “Things We Wished We Knew” blog series.Read More

Palette Crêperie – Monhegan

Palette Creperie logoOriginally hailing from Morocco and residing New York City, Redwane Gatarny, a trained chef, embarked on a journey back to his culinary roots. After seven years in public health, he decided to return to his passion for good food with a dream of sharing the authentic flavors he remembers from his childhood. He wanted to open a seasonal food trailer on Monhegan Island.Read More