Imagine: Rush hour at your business. A call comes in – pay $2,000 in 15 minutes, or your power’s off. It’s a scam, and steals thousands from Maine businesses every day. Can your business afford to lose thousands, and are you prepared for the recent uptick in international crime and fraud?

While many scams present as obvious, many are sophisticated and difficult to spot. How do you identify those currently taking advantage of other businesses? In this webinar, Maine SBDC Advisor Dan Umphrey, and Brandon McDonald at Northern Maine Development Commission aim to equip business owners with the knowledge they need to fight off common (and some less-common) scams, attacks, and spoof websites. Participants should expect to gain new knowledge on how to quickly identify fake websites or phone numbers and feel more confident in being able to notice the first signs of suspicious activity.

Participants will:

- Learn how to verify email addresses and callers.
- Go through the top 5 most common scams impacting Maine’s businesses.
- Define what legal recourse they have in the event of fraud, and learn who to report fraud to.
- Research if your business data, emails, or passwords have been compromised.
- Determine if training is necessary to help your employees keep your business secure.

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact mainesbdc@maine.edu.

Spokeswomen: a facilitated peer group designed to help female entrepreneurs become more persuasive and effective communicators for a wide range of situations.

How does it work? Through this highly interactive 8-week online program, participants will gain clarity and develop their own personal style of speaking about their business. Each session is an opportunity to practice storytelling through a range of speaking scenarios, all with a supportive sounding board of female entrepreneurs who provide feedback and encouragement. Through supplementary homework exercises, participants deepen their understanding of persuasive speaking tools and techniques to be a confident and effective communicator.

The Spokeswomen cohort has a maximum of 10 participants to allow for ample speaking opportunities along with fostering connection and vulnerability among participants.

From scenarios including casual inquiries about your business to professional elevator pitches, Spokeswomen will provide a space for you to practice techniques for all types of situations so you can feel confident speaking on the spot.

“Spokeswomen gave me all of the information I never knew I needed! By the end of the course, I was able to confidently and clearly define who I am as a professional and explain my services and their benefits. I learned tricks for making my speeches and content entertaining, engaging, and relatable. I’ve been afraid of promoting my business because I didn’t have the words to market in a convincing way. I no doubt believe that my business will grow now that I’ve gotten over this hurdle. It has been the missing link.” – Spokeswomen Participant Summer 2022

When does Spokeswomen begin? We will be kicking off our Spring 2025 Spokeswomen cohort on April 29th. Sessions will be 2-hours, from 4pm-6pm, meeting virtually via Zoom for 8 weeks.

What happens at the end of the course? The course will culminate with a virtual speaking event, at which each participant will present their “goal speech” and get a final.

Who should sign up? Maine-based female entrepreneurs who are currently in business.

How much does the program cost? Typically, this program costs $250 per person but for our Spring 2025 cohort, we will be offering this free of charge.

What if my business does not entail public speaking? Spokeswomen will help to build your comfort with speaking up in all kinds of situations that you may find yourself in as an entrepreneur — making a pitch, speaking in front of groups, interviewing, selling, negotiating, and more. No matter what kind of business you own, your ability to communicate your message is essential.

Session Dates: Spokeswomen will meet on Zoom on the following dates:

Tuesday, April 29th 4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday, May 6th 4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday, May 13th 4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday, May 20th 4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday, May 27th 4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday, June 3rd 4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday, June 10th 4:00pm-6:00pm

Tuesday, June 17th 4:00pm-6:00pm

Register Today!

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Interpretation is available upon request.

Do you have products or services you’d like to sell to Maine’s largest corporate or government buyers?

As a small business, understanding the procurement landscape can open new doors to growth and long-term success.

Maine’s corporate and government buyers are eager to source from local businesses, and many procurement policies prioritize working with small, local vendors.

This panel discussion will bring together procurement professionals who will share insights into their purchasing processes, supplier requirements, and strategies for small businesses to successfully secure contracts.

Join us for this valuable conversation and learn how to position your business to tap into these procurement opportunities. Whether you're new to selling to large buyers or looking to expand your reach, this discussion will provide key takeaways to help you navigate the process.

Our panelists:

Kristen Hickey, Vendor Inclusion & Diversity Manager WEX, Inc.

Rachel Piper, Chief Procurement Officer & Executive Director Strategic Procurement University of Maine System

Jim Pineau, Senior Area Manager, Maine District Office Small Business Administration

Kate McAleer, Founder of Bixby Chocolate

Register Today!

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Interpretation is available upon request.

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start a restaurant, food truck, catering service, or cloud kitchen but unsure where to begin?

Do language barriers make it difficult to understand regulations and requirements? Does starting a foodservice business feel logistically or financially out of reach?

Join us for this 6-week, in-person program, where we provide hands-on guidance to help participants navigate the essential steps to launching a foodservice business!

Program Overview:

Food Biz Bootcamp is a hands-on training program designed for entrepreneurs ready to launch a foodservice business. This in-person program offers essential knowledge, practical skills, and valuable business connections to help participants navigate the foodservice industry with confidence.

Session Dates/Times:

Thursday, May 1st: 9:30am – 12:00pm Noon (CEI Portland)

Thursday, May 8th: 9:30am – 12:00pm Noon (CEI Portland)

Thursday, May 15th: 9:30am – 12:00pm Noon (To Be Confirmed)

Thursday, May 22nd: 9:30am – 12:00pm Noon (CEI Portland)

Thursday, May 29th: 9:30am – 12:00pm Noon (CEI Portland)

Thursday, June 5th: 9:00am – 4:00pm (CEI Portland) Full day attendance required

Location: CEI Portland, 2 Portland Fish Pier, Suite 201, Portland, ME 04101

Who This Is For: This program is ideal for individuals passionate about food and eager to turn their culinary talents into a foodservice business. It is designed especially for those facing challenges due to limited financial resources, unfamiliarity with Maine’s business regulations, or language and cultural barriers. This free program will be conducted in English.

Program Components:

Foodservice Business Foundations– Understanding various types of foodservice operations and their pros and cons, and industry trends.

Regulations – Understanding licensing and permit requirements.

Commercial Kitchens – Field trips to explore shared kitchen settings.

Staffing Requirements – Understanding regulations related to hiring employees.

Financial Literacy & Pricing Strategies – Budgeting, pricing for profit, and accessing funding opportunities.

ServSafe Course & Exam – Completing this one-day course and exam to earn a certified food protection manager credential — a prerequisite for applying for a business license.

Eligibility:

This program is open to entrepreneurs who:

Have a business plan for a foodservice business or are actively working with a business advisor or mentor to develop one. (Please contact CEI if you need a referral to one of our confidential, no-cost advisors.)

Have a basic menu.

Can commit to attending all sessions of the program.

Cost: Free

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Interpretation is available upon request.

In entrepreneurship, the traits, skills, and knowledge we inherit from the significant women in our lives often shape who we are and how we succeed.

These influences may be seen in the confidence to lead, the resilience to overcome challenges, or the wisdom that guides our decisions.

Join this session to discuss:

What characteristics, skills, knowledge have you inherited from the significant women in your life?
How have they helped you succeed in business?
What characteristics do you cherish and have served you well?
Which traits do you avoid?
What important lessons do you carry to the work you do?
Bring your coffee or tea and join us to listen, share, and learn from one another in curious conversation. Biz Fit is an informal, confidential, and supportive gathering where we exchange ideas and share insights!

Register Today!

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Interpretation is available upon request.

Join WBC Business Advisor, Jodi Cordes, for an informal networking meeting with new, existing, or aspiring female entrepreneurs from Greater Franklin County!

We meet on the first Tuesday each month for great conversation among business owners, at any stage.

Come together to connect, share expertise, and learn from each other about running a business.

Location: Wears and Wares at 413 Wilton Road Farmington, ME 04938.

Light refreshments will be provided.

Registration in advance is highly encouraged.

Agenda:

7:30 am-8:00 am - Facilitated conversation/educational presentation.

8:00am - 9:00am Meet, Share, & Connect - stay and chat, depart when you need to.

Register Today!

Join us on the first Tuesday in June too – click the link to register for our next meet up!

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Interpretation is available upon request.

Adding retirement savings benefits is a great way to invest in your workforce, increasing retention and helping attract quality candidates. Business owners can also save for their own retirement using workplace retirement plans. With Maine’s new MERIT program, workplace retirement savings are more relevant than ever.

Please join Maine’s SBDC and Coastal Enterprises Inc for a webinar covering everything you need to know about affordable workplace retirement savings for small businesses, whether you are looking to save for your own retirement, create a plan for your staff, or ensure that you are complying with Maine’s new mandatory retirement savings law. The webinar will be held on Zoom on May 6th at 10am. Feel free to ask any questions you may have for a Q&A period following the session.

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact mainesbdc@maine.edu

Join us for our annual signature event. Trade Day 2025 will include a networking reception, keynote speaker, and annual awards ceremony. Learn more and register today!

Feeling pressure from the strain of rising costs, supply chain challenges, or shifting economic conditions? Having the right strategies can help you stay ahead.

Join Director of Business Advising, Raynor Large, for this webinar where we will explore key financial tipping points and practical steps to strengthen your business and create a clear path forward.

You’ll leave with a better understanding of how to navigate uncertainty, plus there will be plenty of time for Q&A.

Register Today!

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Interpretation is available upon request.

Get ready for an unforgettable night filled with fun, drinks, music, and charitable donations! Bid on exclusive items in the live and silent auctions while experiencing music by Sugarbox. Feel the energy as your bids contribute to making a lasting impact on the important mission of the Kids First Center.

Each year, MEREDA identifies and recognizes the most noteworthy and significant Maine commercial development projects from the previous year. These Notable Projects embody MEREDA’s mission of responsible development.

We’re excited to honor the 2024 Notable Projects on May 14th as we also celebrate our 40th anniversary. This “social celebration” will be in place of our Spring Social. Please join us – it will be a “Notable Night with MEREDA!

We are also partnering with Mainebiz who will be producing a special publication called “Groundbreaking Maine” to be released in June. This will put a spotlight on the innovators, general contractors, engineers, architects, and the developments that showcase responsible development in action!

The IEEE-USA Innovation, Workforce, and Research Conference (IWRC) will bring together stakeholders from industry, government, and academia for an AI Summit in Portland, Maine. We will meet, network, learn, and discuss federal and state technology initiatives and other government programs that promote innovation and small business in the northeast.

This event will provide opportunities to meet potential partners and learn more about how you can contribute to the innovation ecosystem in Maine and the northeast.

The Maine Entrepreneur Summit is happening on May 16th at the USM Abromson Center in Portland, Maine. This one-day event is your ticket to dive deep into entrepreneurship and boost your business. Join us for workshops, networking opportunities, and the Top Gun Showcase Pitch Competition.

1:15PM Registration Opens

1:30PM High Impact Workshops:

Workshop I: Leveraging EOS: A Framework for Growth and Success
Discover how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) can help your organization build a solid
framework for sustained growth and operational excellence
Speaker: Megan Piper, EOS Worldwide | Case discussions: Linda Varrell, Broadreach, Irene Moon,
Bristol Seafood

Workshop II: Smart Apps and AI Solutions for Startups
This workshop will explore how startups can leverage AI-driven applications and smart apps to
streamline operations, enhance customer engagement, and gain a competitive edge in their
industries. Speaker, Jon Godbout – Haloran Lab Entrepreneur – in – Residence, Colby College; and
Cofounder of Prospector

3:00PM Maine Entrepreneurs Summit Opening & Keynote Address
Welcome Remarks: Tom Rainey, Executive Director, Maine Center for Entrepreneurs
Keynote Address: Building a Future Ready Business: Dr. Stephanie Woerner, MIT Sloan School, author
of Future Ready: The Four Pathways to Capturing Digital Value.

3:45PM Trade Show & Networking Reception
Featuring products and services from Top Gun companies, industry funders, and sponsors. This
Networking Reception provides opportunities for attendees to connect, discuss ideas, and build valuable
relationships.

5:30PM Opening Remarks & Top Gun Showcase Pitch Competition
Top Gun finalists pitch their innovative ideas, products, or services to a panel of expert judges.

7:55PM Top Gun Pitch Award Winner Announcement

Starting or growing your small business? Understanding business entities is essential. This webinar, presented by Maine SBDC and Opticliff Law, will focus on LLCs and other entities to help you make informed decisions.

While Maine SBDC does not provide legal advice, this session will cover key considerations for small businesses, including the differences between LLCs, sole proprietorships, and other structures; steps to form and maintain an LLC; and contract tips. Join us to gain clarity on what entity best fits your business needs!

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact mainesbdc@maine.edu

Do you wish you had an HR department to turn to for guidance?

Join us for a 1.5-hour session where we’ll help you build confidence and gain clarity on effectively conducting Performance Improvement Plans (PIP).

Knowing how to address performance issues proactively is essential when managing a team. In this session, Jodi Cordes will explain why PIPs are a crucial tool for business owners and walk through the best practices for implementing them with your team.

Following with presentation, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in an interactive forum where you can ask your burning HR-related questions and learn from fellow business owners who have faced similar challenges.

Bring your questions about PIPs, handling employee performance, or any other HR concerns!

This peer-to-peer learning environment offers a safe, confidential space for business owners to share experiences, solve problems together, and walk away with practical insights.

While we may not have time to cover every question, we’ll make sure you leave with valuable resources to help you move forward.

Please note that while Jodi Cordes is an experienced HR professional, she is unable to provide legal advice.

Register Today!

Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Interpretation is available upon request.