In December 2023, Madisyn Smith lost everything when devastating floods swept through Farmington, destroying the salon where she worked as an independent contractor. The building was left with no insulation, frozen pipes, ruined floors, and a landlord unwilling to help. What had once been a dream became unsustainable. “I was so unhappy in a building… Read more »
Posts Tagged: marketing
Taking Your Marketing from Effort to Impact
By Alison Lane, Maine SBDC Center Director and Business Advisor We all know that marketing is essential in small business, but many owners still find it overwhelming. According to Constant Contact’s 2025 State of SMB Marketing Report, small businesses are investing more time and money in marketing and trying out new tools. Yet confidence has… Read more »
Maine Compost Co – Lewiston
Joshua and Olivia Flynn founded Maine Compost Co LLC to tackle a growing problem in their community: food waste. Based in Lewiston, the business offers convenient compost pickup services to residential and commercial customers across Androscoggin County. With scheduled weekly or biweekly pickups, the Flynns aim to make composting easy and impactful for local households… Read more »
Lehoux Art – Wells
Danielle Lehoux launched Lehoux Art to create a more flexible and fulfilling path—one that could accommodate the ups and downs of managing a chronic health condition while pursuing creative fulfillment.
Unplugged Arcade – Clinton
Sean Sickles of Clinton, Maine, has combined his passion for performance and board games to create The Unplugged Arcade, a mobile event entertainment business that travels across Maine and New England. As an emcee and game facilitator, Sean helps people connect through screen-free fun. Whether he’s at a library, festival, or company event, he brings… Read more »
The Belle of Belgrade – Belgrade
After just one visit to Belgrade Lakes, Lyndee Waldbauer knew she had found something special. That moment led to a cross-country move, and eventually, the launch of The Belle of Belgrade. The concierge-style business curates extraordinary experiences that celebrate the beauty, creativity, and calm of lakeside Maine living.
Café Luna – Falmouth
After living in Maine nearly 25 years, Juliann Joy identified a gap in the local dining scene and stepped up to fill it. She opened Café Luna on Route 1 in Scarborough in early 2024, creating a cozy spot for healthy breakfast and lunch options.
Winnie’s Beauty Salon – South Portland
When Winnie Ogweta opened Winnie’s Beauty Salon in South Portland, she set out to do more than style hair. As the first Black-owned salon in South Portland, and one of just a handful across Maine, her business represents an important milestone and a new opportunity. As a licensed hairstylist, Winnie wanted to create a space… Read more »
How Small Businesses Can Strategize During an Economic Downturn
The 2008 financial crisis and the 2020 pandemic recession left lasting marks on the Maine small business community. Yet, in each case, some Maine businesses found ways to not only weather the storm but adapt and grow in new directions.
Owlbear’s Rest – Westbrook
For Patty and Matt, Maine is where they built their family and careers. Now, they are preparing to open their dream business. Owlbear’s Rest brings people together through great games, good food, and a welcoming community. With an extensive library of board and roleplaying games, cozy seating, and a thoughtfully crafted menu featuring local producers,… Read more »