2027 goals
Family-owned businesses are the backbone of Maine’s economy, and IFOB exists to help them thrive across generations. We grow through memberships, sponsorships, and volunteers, and our goal is to expand engagement statewide – not only with family business owners, but also with the family members and employees who help carry these businesses forward – while maintaining our 95% member retention rate.
Last year, we launched the Maine Futures Scholarship for graduating seniors pursuing post-secondary education at Maine institutions. This year, we received a record 60-plus applications and will once again award a renewable $2,500 scholarship. We hope to expand this opportunity in the years ahead.
Through educational programs, confidential peer groups, signature events, and trusted relationships, we help family businesses learn from one another, navigate change, and prepare for what’s next. We want more Maine families to discover a community where they feel understood, supported, and connected.
Fundraising events/opportunities
Throughout the year, IFOB brings family business leaders together to learn from one another, build trusted relationships, and strengthen Maine’s family business community. We do this through more than 45 educational programs, confidential peer groups, signature events, and statewide gatherings including our “How To” educational series, Midday Conversations, Maine Family Business Awards, National Family-Owned Business Day, New Year Party, and Golf Scramble.
Businesses and individuals support this work through memberships, sponsorships, donations, and event participation. Every dollar invested helps create opportunities for meaningful connection, practical learning, and peer support while ensuring Maine’s family-owned businesses – and the communities they serve – continue to thrive.
Giving opportunities
IFOB connects people who understand the unique realities of family-owned businesses. Through confidential peer groups, educational programs, and signature events, members build trusted relationships, share practical experience, and learn from one another.
We offer two membership types: Family Business Members, for two or more family members working in or leading the same business, and Associate Partners, who serve as trusted advisors to the family business community.
Businesses can support IFOB through sponsorships, memberships, scholarship contributions, estate gifts, in-kind donations, and event participation. Sponsors receive visibility through our Kindred Connector newsletter (bi-monthly e-newsletter with 3,500-plus readers), website, social media, Maine Family Business Awards, and other programs while helping strengthen a community that supports family businesses across Maine.
Volunteer opportunities
We welcome guest speakers who are willing to share practical experience with Maine’s family business community through educational programs and conversations. Volunteers also help greet guests and support signature events, including the Maine Family Business Awards, New Year Party, Golf Scramble, and Business After Hours. Others contribute by serving on our board or committees, helping strengthen an organization built on relationships, shared experience, and a commitment to Maine’s family-owned businesses.
