May 18, 2026Edition

Why do so many small business owners feel like they have to crawl through barbed wire to make it all work?

Developing future leaders starts with everyday work. Do employees take ownership without being asked? Do they solve problems for others? Do they care about how decisions affect customers and coworkers?

“It’s such a cool food,” says Speare. “It has twice the protein of tofu, tons of fiber, is a complete protein and all the benefits of fermentation for your gut health. And it’s delicious. You can crumble it to make tacos and sauces, bake it, stir fry it, marinate it, grill it, air fry it — so many options.”

For the latest edition of her monthly "Street Sense" column, Mainebiz Deputy Editor Renee Cordes checks in with vendors early in the season selling products from honey to microgreens.

Small businesses across Maine are squeezed between rising costs and reluctance to pass those costs on to customers.

“It feels like Ellsworth is shifting from a pass-through service center — and in part, it is that — to a destination with its own identity and momentum and increased activity,” says the city’s director of economic development.

Building an effective AI business coach requires multiple rounds of iteration, our guest columnist recommends.

The founding director of the Maine Life Sciences Center sees the state's economic future in developing the sector.

A roundup of new hires, promotions and achievements at businesses, nonprofits, professional services firms and health care institutions in Maine.