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Updated: April 10, 2025

Ellsworth photographer will use 'downtown' grant for professional development

Three people pose for a photo. Photo / Courtesy Heart of Ellsworth From left, Zelli of Zi Photography, Jaime Lynn Parent of Ghost Rose Tattoo and Jesse Steiger of Conscious Café,
By Laurie Schreiber

Structural improvements, new equipment and professional development opportunities are on tap for three downtown Ellsworth businesses that received awards through the fourth round of Heart of Ellsworth’s Downtown Grants program.

The owner of Zi Photography won the lead grant of $5,000, which will go toward business projects and continuing education courses in newborn photography in order to stay up-to-date on current practices and safety protocols.

“It's a huge expense, but I try to attend these workshops every couple years just to stay as sharp and current as possible, because it's my top priority to be able to provide the best experience and care for the littlest citizens in our area,” said the proprietor of Zi Photography, Zelli, who goes by one name. “These funds are really helping me be able to attend one this year without as much financial burden.”

Jaime Lynn Parent of Ghost Rose Tattoo received $3,000 and Jesse Steiger of Conscious Cafe received $500. Their projects include structural improvements and new equipment.

Heart of Ellsworth is a nonprofit that promotes artistic, economic, educational, environmental, cultural and historic activities in the downtown area.

Its Downtown Grants program connects entrepreneurs, small businesses, innovators and startups to resources and opportunities. Since the program started, Heart of Ellsworth has supported 33 projects. This year’s grants were funded by Franklin Savings Bank, Bangor Federal Credit Union, First National Bank and Machias Savings Bank.

In past years, grant money has been used for an oven for a coffee roasting site and oak barrels for a brewery, as well as for consulting and marketing.

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