SBA names top performers
The U.S. Small Business Administration recently recognized seven Maine executives and companies for their impact on the state's economy.
Small Business Exporter of the Year: Allagash International Inc., Portland
Since its inception in 2002, the company has become one of the largest suppliers of valves and controls to Latin America while retaining a product line that is 100% made in the United States.
Financial Services Champion of the Year: Dennis Lajoie, CEO of Community Concepts Finance Corp., Lewiston
Using a number of programs, as well as partnering with the Small Business Development centers and SCORE chapters, the company is recognized as a partner in building small businesses in Maine.
Micro-Enterprise of the Year: Kurt and Kathy Cressey, owners of Pack Baskets of Maine, Orrington
Originally started to supplement the income of their general store, the company now produces over 2,000 handmade baskets each year.
Veteran-Owned Small Business: Alfred J. "Fred" Lebel, chairman of Maine Heritage Weavers, Lewiston
The textile company, which started with two looms purchased from Biddeford Textiles, now has nearly 30 employees and continues to grow.
Woman-Owned Small Business: Nancy O'Brien, owner of Fiore LLC, Bar Harbor
Starting in 2009 as a retail store for specialty olive oils and vinegars in Bar Harbor, the company has expanded to a second location in Rockland.
Jeffrey Butland Award for Family-Owned Small Business of the Year for Maine and New England: Derosier Family, owners of Lakeview Restaurant & Camping Resort, St. Agatha
The now 275-seat restaurant opened in the in the early 1980s and was expanded to include a 75-site campground in 1995.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Maine and New England: Cory LaPlante, owner and CEO of Northern Prosthetics & Orthotics, Presque Isle
The practice is the only full-time prosthetics and orthotic facility north of Bangor with American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics Certified Practitioners.
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