Maine Department of Economic and Community Development

Scratchpad works with Northern New England's most promising scalable companies that are developing and selling value-added food products. Each cohort is intentionally curated to bring together teams that are ready to make the most of the resources they provide. Based in Bangor, Maine, we coach and support growth-oriented companies across Maine, playing a key role in their success across the following industries: Agriculture companies Aquaculture companies Value-added food companies Food-related technology companies Scratchpad focuses on growth-oriented companies and selects cohorts that are at similar stages of development. Our team curates a cohort and mentor pool that will benefit one another. We will have regular remote check-ins and networking events. Learn more and apply here: https://lnkd.in/gVc2hjMf

Are you interested in selling your goods or services to the government? Don't miss Maine's Meet the Buyers Matchmaking event on May 15th in Augusta where you will build business relationships through networking, small business training, and one-on-one meetings. This is your opportunity to meet: Federal, state and local agencies Prime contractors Business resources Small businesses The 2025 Maine Business Matchmaker is hosted by Eastern Maine Development Corporation (EMDC) and co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense and the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD). Learn more and register here: https://lnkd.in/eKSe_FsN

Join ClimateWork Maine for the 3rd Annual Summit on Maine's Economy & Climate Change. This pivotal event will take place on May 8, 2025, and it promises to be a day filled with informative sessions and engaging discussions that focus on actionable climate solutions. This summit is not just another conference; it's an opportunity to make a real difference in your community and your business. Whether you are a business owner looking to adopt sustainable practices or an advocate for change in your local area, this summit will equip you with the tools you need to drive climate action effectively. Learn more and sign up today! https://lnkd.in/eczNpMaK

Small Business Workshop & Open House   Wednesday, May 7th, 9:00am-10:30am 28 Main Street, Milo In celebration of National Small Business Week, please join SBA Maine and the Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce at Elaine's Cafe & Bakery for this free small business workshop. We’ll discuss how the SBA supports small businesses through loan programs, business development assistance, and much more. The presentation will be followed by a questions and answer session and networking. https://lnkd.in/d7KeQnjU

Registration is now open for Trade Day 2025! Join the folks at MITC for their annual signature event. Trade Day 2025 will include a networking reception, keynote speaker, and annual awards ceremony. Registration will open in March May 7, 2025 4:00 - 8:00 PM Freeport https://lnkd.in/g-rjr5HM

An Export Compliance Program is key to operating in accordance with the federal government’s Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Integrating requirements from export controls into business operations can be difficult. Join Maine International Trade Center and Nicolette Reed, Vice President of Evolutions in Business, on April 24th to learn about Export Compliance Programs and how to assemble an Export Compliance team for your business. In addition, webinar attendees from SBA-eligible companies in Maine will be able to book a free 30-minute digital follow-up meeting with Nicolette to ask individual questions. Learn more and register here: https://lnkd.in/g_RV8Byy

The Central Western Maine Workforce Development Board (CWMWDB) is inviting local businesses and employer partners operating within the counties of Kennebec, Somerset, Franklin, Oxford and Androscoggin to apply for funding to pay for transportation pilots that help mitigate transportation as a barrier to recruit and retain qualified jobseekers. Hurry, RFA's are due by April 15! Read more here:  https://lnkd.in/gQ9XySez

Building a Strong Foundation for Your New Business   Monday, April 14th, 11:00am-1:00pm York Region Chamber of Commerce, 1 Stonewall Lane, York This dynamic two-hour in-person training session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to launch and grow successful startups. The class provides a comprehensive exploration of the essential components needed to build a robust business foundation. Learn more and register today! https://lnkd.in/gy_RRErd

The Maine Lodging and Restaurant Expo is less than a week away. Sign up today!

Building a Strong Foundation for Your New Business   Monday, April 14th, 11:00am-1:00pm York Region Chamber of Commerce, 1 Stonewall Lane, York This dynamic two-hour in-person training session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to launch and grow successful startups. The class provides a comprehensive exploration of the essential components needed to build a robust business foundation. Key Topics Covered: What’s Your Purpose: Find a need, fill a need, passion, and purpose. Effective Market Research, Business Model Canvas, Economic Model of a Business, Legal Entities & Business Licenses, Access to Capital & Financing Sources, Developing a Business Plan, SBA Programs and Services. Additional Topics: The session will also touch on other critical aspects of launching a startup, providing you with better formulated questions to discuss with your advisor or mentor so you can move forward with confidence. https://lnkd.in/gy_RRErd