Anne and Pete Taylor started Buoy Pops in Harpswell after a simple idea sparked something bigger. When the couple mused about why there was not already a lollipop shaped like a lobster buoy, they saw the potential and decided to build a business around it. Today, Buoy Pops hand makes chocolate lollipops shaped like little… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Success Stories
Farmington Food Co-op – Farmington
Amber Stone helped lead the transition of the Farmington Food Co-op when the longtime natural foods store was put up for sale, helping preserve a business that has served the downtown Farmington community since 1973. A Farmington native, Amber returned to the area in her late 20s and now serves as the co-op’s interim general… Read more »
Keepsake Bridal – Thomaston
Olivia Luedee opened Keepsake Bridal in Thomaston after returning home to Midcoast Maine. She had nearly a decade of bridal industry experience and a clear vision for a boutique that felt personal, distinctive, and rooted in care. After years in the wedding world, and after going through the dress shopping process as a bride herself,… Read more »
Skills for Life – South Portland
Dr. Ashley St. John and Dr. Nicole Heal founded Skills for Life to address a critical need for early childhood special education services in southern Maine. Their South Portland preschool provides specialized education and early intervention for young children with developmental disabilities. Both founders brought extensive experience to the venture. Nicole has worked in behavior… Read more »
Turning Tides – Biddeford
Aubrey Jane launched Turning Tides Ocean Education in 2025 to give people more opportunities to learn directly from environmental scientists while exploring Maine’s coast. A marine biologist specializing in the ecology and physiology of marine invertebrates, Aubrey saw an opportunity to help people appreciate the smaller species that are often overlooked in favor of whales,… Read more »
Heirloom Consignment – South Portland
Carlos Toledo purchased Heirloom Consignment in South Portland in November 2025, beginning a new career as the owner of a longtime Knightville neighborhood business. After spending two decades as a health scientist at the CDC, Carlos retired in April 2025 and began looking for a new challenge rooted in creativity and community.
Southern Maine Athlete Academy – Portland & Saco
Working as an admissions counselor at the University of New England, Jeremy Longchamp was in a 9-5 job for the first time in his career. But he quickly realized he wasn’t using the skillset he truly loved: coaching.
Gallery 35 – Westbrook
Jen and Julian Vance, owners of Gallery 35 in Westbrook, create laser engraved artwork ranging from layered wall décor and ornaments to bookmarks, maps, and custom pieces. What began as a creative experiment soon became a business.
Ruff Pine Dog Treats – Waterboro
Emily and Nicholas Conley built Ruff Pine Dog Treats in Waterboro after deciding they wanted better ingredients for their own dogs, Willow and Blue. What began as homemade treats for their pets quickly grew when family and friends saw how much their dogs loved them, inspiring the couple to turn the idea into a business.
Oh, Grow Up! – Bangor
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,… Read more »