The Next Workforce: Engaging Youth Through Leadership and Entrepreneurship
Washington County’s future depends on cultivating the next generation of leaders, innovators, and community builders who choose to stay and thrive locally. Success depends on listening to youth, making them feel “heard and valued,” and tailoring efforts based on their actual needs rather than assumptions.
Tackling Rural Housing Challenges Through Partnership
Housing shortages continue to challenge Washington and Hancock County communities, affecting everything from workforce recruitment to economic growth. Recently, regional partners explored how municipalities, land trusts, conservation groups, and research institutions are working together to create innovative housing solutions tailored to rural needs.
Building Strong Workplace Culture in Washington County
In Washington County, workplace culture has emerged as a critical aspect of attracting and retaining talent. At the 2025 SCEC Economic Summit, local business and nonprofit leaders shared strategies for creating workplaces where people feel valued, empowered, and connected to something meaningful.
Public Invited to December 10 Meeting on Downtown Machias Flooding and Water Quality
The Town of Machias and Sunrise County Economic Council (SCEC) invite all community members to a public meeting on Wednesday, December 10, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM at the Lee Pellon Center, 90 Main Street, Machias, to learn about the Upper Machias Bay Master Plan and to...
FFD Partners with University Credit Union to Empower Families Through Financial Education
Family Futures Downeast (FFD) has launched a new partnership with University Credit Union (UCU) to deliver financial literacy education to FFD students and alumni, as well as StartUp Downeast participants throughout Washington County. UCU is sponsoring the financial...
FamilyU Seal Awarded to Student Parent Programs of Family Futures Downeast
Sunrise County Economic Council, on behalf of Family Futures Downeast, is proud to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious FamilyU Seal, awarded by Generation Hope. This national, three-year certification, honors higher education...
Public Invited to November 3 Meeting on Machias Dike Replacement Options
MACHIAS, ME — The Town of Machias and Sunrise County Economic Council (SCEC) invite all community members to a public meeting on Monday, November 3, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM at the Lee Pellon Center, 90 Main Street, Machias, to learn about the Upper Machias Bay Master...
SCEC to Host 2025 Economic Summit
Sunrise County Economic Council (SCEC) invites business leaders, educators, nonprofit professionals, and community members to its 2025 Economic Summit on November 14, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Cobscook Institute in Trescott. The title of this year's summit...
Machias Comp Plan Committee Launches Community Survey
The Machias Comprehensive Planning Committee is pleased to announce the release of its Community Survey. The survey is an essential part of the Town’s comprehensive planning process and offers residents the chance to share input on housing, land use, public services,...
Bluff Erosion Challenges Downeast Maine
While bluff erosion is natural, for the landowners, it can be devastating. However, strategies which harness natural forces can slow bluff erosion. Using them, landowners can create healthy, natural shorelines responsive to rising sea levels and intense storms.