40 Under 40: Matthew DuBois is co-owner of the bakery that anchors downtown Skowhegan
PHOTO / Tim Greenway
Matthew DuBois is co-owner of the Bankery and Skowhegan Fleuriste.
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Significant professional accomplishment: Starting my own business from scratch at the age 20. Over the past 16 years, along with my brother and husband, I have successfully grown this company from just two employees to a thriving team of 26.
This journey has not only taught me valuable lessons in entrepreneurship and leadership, but it has also strengthened my commitment to my community. In addition to growing my primary business, I took bold steps by purchasing another business at the age of 22. This allowed me to expand my expertise and contribute positively to the local economy.
I am also proud to be a co-owner of a real estate company, which has further diversified my professional portfolio. Currently, I own three commercial properties in Skowhegan, reflecting my dedication to investing in and supporting my hometown.
Current state of mind: Hope. I am generally an optimistic person and look forward to life’s challenges and opportunities.
Passion project: Contributing to the revitalization and continued growth of the Skowhegan area. Giving back to my community and helping shape its trajectory for future generations is something I feel deeply committed to. I actively participate on the boards of Main Street Skowhegan and Skowhegan Economic Development.
Through these organizations, we focus on initiatives that promote local businesses, improve public spaces and foster community engagement. Being part of this transformation inspires me, and I’m proud to play a role in shaping a promising future for Skowhegan.
‘Lightbulb’ moment: At a young age, I was rooted in my family’s legacy of entrepreneurship. Growing up surrounded by various small businesses owned by my relatives instilled in me a passion for being my own boss and pursuing my dreams.
One particularly vivid memory stands out: when I was a young child, I would spend hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, who lived right next door. She taught me the art of baking, and it was during those moments that I discovered my love for pastry arts. I remember feeling excited as I mastered making and rolling out pie crusts and baked my first pies.
From that point forward, I knew I wanted to combine my passion for baking with my family’s entrepreneurial spirit. Opening my bakery and flower shop is a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and the desire to honor my roots while sharing my love for pastries and floral design with the community.
Audacious goal: To travel the world as a wedding designer
Favorite quote: “You see, every star hits periods of hardship. It takes a brighter light to inspire them through the darkness” — Harry Baker
Influential book: “The Power of Beliefs in Business,” by Ari Weinzweig
Favorite podcast: “Planet Money” on NPR
Best way to recharge: When I am not working and volunteering, I love to be in the outdoors to exercise, hike, kayak etc. Being outside helps lift me out of the daily grind and refreshes my perspective.
I also love to spend time with friends and family, breaking bread and sharing in great conversations.
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