Amber Lambke

A year after Mainebiz honored five individuals as our 2022 Business Leaders of the Year, we checked in to find out what they’re up to now.

The investments will encompass the Skowhegan area, and include manufacturing, education, housing, energy and retail industries. 

Crooked Face Creamery owner Amy Rowbottom has used a range of grants, incentive programs and "slow money" financing to build an artisan cheesemaking business that's gaining wider recognition.

Skowhegan-based Maine Grains Inc. plans an expansion on an adjacent lot. The pandemic fueled a surge in home baking, which helped sales, but faces higher costs for transportation and packaging.

Mainebiz pays homage to 2022's Business Leaders of the Year and Women to Watch honorees.

Skowhegan's efforts to revitalize the downtown are paying off with new businesses and more recreation options on the riverfront.

The annual awards recognize commercial and nonprofit leaders for exceptional contributions to Maine and Maine's economy. The 2022 recipients represent an array of industries and regions — from housing to handbags, from Portland to Skowhegan.

Seaweed salad made in Maine and one of the state's craft beers were among this year's winners, selected among more than 1,900 entries nationwide.

The Converge and Create Conference, at Thomas College in Waterville, will feature a variety of successful Maine entrepreneurs, as well as a preliminary round of the "Greenlight Maine" college-level business pitch competition.

Amber Lambke, CEO of Maine Grains, has bought an adjacent vacant lot in Skowhegan, with plans for a...