Posts Categorized: News & Events

Understanding Financial Statements – A Video Series

Do you struggle with financial management in your small business?  Are you intimidated by the income statement, baffled by the balance sheet, or confused by a cash flow statement? You’re not alone! Most small business owners don’t use their financial reports to their full advantage or only see them only as a tool to file… Read more »

Maine SBDC Names 2023 State Star

Photo of Anne Lancaster, Business Advisor at Maine SBDC at USM, and text that reads 2023 State Star

The Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC) has selected Anne Lancaster as the 2023 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. Anne Lancaster is a business advisor at the Maine SBDC at University of… Read more »

Understanding Your Customer Through Market Research 

3 hands holding pencils, pointing at the same data point

Market research is one of the first things small business owners should consider when starting their business. This research will help you identify who your customers are, what they like, and how best to reach them.

Common Small Business Bookkeeping Mistakes

Hands holding accounting paperwork and using a calculator

Keeping accurate records of your business’s financial transactions is critical to ensure consistency and avoid bookkeeping mistakes. However, small business owners often make common bookkeeping errors that can lead to significant financial problems.

Maine SBDC Business Advisors Receive Certifications

GIF of Maine SBDC team slideshow attending NEPD 2023

Certified Business Advisors O’Brien, Treworgy, Umphrey Recognized The Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC), a state-wide program that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses, recognized three (3) business advisors who received their Core Competencies Certification from the New England Professional Development (NEPD) group on Wednesday, May 17, 2023.  Newly certified advisors include Christina… Read more »

Tips & Tricks to Repair Your Credit

Tips & Tricks to Repair Your Credit text over a hand holding a photo displaying a credit score

As a business owner, your personal credit score will impact your ability to get a business loan, secure credit lines, and even lease office space. While credit score requirements vary by institution or credit card provider, if your credit score is less than perfect, there are steps you can take to repair it!

Should You Raise Your Prices?

Should You Raise Your Prices? text over an image hands working at a desk writing and using a calculator

As a small business owner, one of the biggest challenges you may face is determining when it’s time to raise your prices. Maintaining loyal customers and earning a profit can be a delicate balance. However, there are times when raising your prices is necessary to keep your business viable.  A winning price strategy includes knowing… Read more »

Preparation For Fairs, Festivals And Farmers Markets

A collage of photos of people and tents. Blue background with white type reading Fairs, Festivals & Farmers Markets: Preparing & Running a Booth, with a white version of the America's Maine SBDC logo.

Maine offers businesses year-round opportunities to display their products to potential customers. The state has 24 agriculture fairs, 70 festivals, 115 summer farmers markets, and 35 fall/winter markets. Participating in fairs, festivals, and farmers’ markets can be an excellent way for businesses to promote their products and increase sales. However, it’s essential to prepare your… Read more »