Entrepreneurial Pathways: Week 11
2024-05-23 14:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Join us for Partners in Entrepreneurial Pathways 2.0: Beyond the Business Plan!

WEEK 11 – PART 1: THE IMPACT OF SMALL BUSINESS ON THE LOCAL ECONOMYUnderstanding the mutual nature of the relationship between economy and business is essential to making timely, and strategic, decisions. This session will provide insight into Washington County’s Economy and the important role small business owners and entrepreneurs play in its success.

WEEK 11 – PART 2: MEET YOUR RESOURCES! PANELMAINE BUSINESS SUPPORT PARTNERS WILL COME TOGETHER TO DISCUSS ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT RESOURCES AND PROGRAMS THAT ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU, FOR FREE!Resource Panelists include technical assistance providers, business advisors, community lenders, and mentors!

This 11-week virtual course, offered for free, dives deep into practical business skills and market insights with sessions led by expert guest lecturers.
Opt for the full experience to earn 3 college credits and Entrepreneurship Digital Badges or select individual sessions to tailor your learning.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or looking to expand your knowledge, this program offers a rich learning environment to connect with peers and the local community.

Resource Fair @ Produce Day!
2024-06-03 10:00 - 12:00 | DownEast Recovery Support Center, 11 Free Street, Machias, ME, 04654, United States
MSBB is partnering with the DownEast Recovery Support Center for monthly mini-resource fairs during Free Produce Day!
This month’s lineup includes representatives from:

Downeast Rainbow Alliance
Eastern Maine Development Corporation
Family Futures Downeast
Healthy Acadia
MaineStreet Business Building
Next Step
Sunrise County Economic Council
Washington County Adult & Community Education

Come and grab some fresh produce, explore programs designed to support you and your family, and connect with valuable resources.
Questions? Please contact Dodie Emerson at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-271-2132. We look forward to seeing you there!
Please note that Free Produce Days are scheduled for the first Monday and Tuesday of each month, operating from 10 am to 4 pm at the DownEast Recovery Support Center. Any updates or adjustments to this schedule will be promptly communicated through the DownEast Recovery Support Center Facebook page.

Jonesport Area Resource Fair
2024-07-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Peabody Memorial Library, 162 Main St, Jonesport, ME, 04649, United States
Learn about:

Recovery Support
Support for Families
Workforce Support for Job Seekers
Education & Training Opportunities
Computer Literacy Training
Small Business and Entrepreneurship Resources

This no-cost event is coordinated by the MaineStreet Business Building and Peabody Memorial Library with support from Eastern Maine Development Corporation, Pathstone, and CareerCenter. Questions? Please contact Dodie Emerson at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-271-2132.

Employment Law: The Basics and Beyond
2024-07-11 13:00 - 17:00 | Edward L Hennessey Jr. Training Center, 1 Colonial Way, Machias, 04654, United States
The Washington County Recovery Friendly Workplace Network is excited to welcome Jack Bjorn, Employee Benefits Attorney, of Eaton Peabody Attorneys at Law for a 2-hour training and networking event.
This is a FREE in-person event, open to all Washington County employers and business owners
Focused training on employment law – from hiring, retention, and everything in between; opportunities to network and ask the expert!
For businesses of all sizes- from entrepreneurs to sole proprietors to large businesses that employ hundreds, this training will help explore the complex challenges that businesses face and understand the protections Stay up-to-date on Compliance, risk management, creating fair and inclusive workplace, employee relations, cost savings, avoiding discrimination or harassment, protecting the company reputation, learn about changes in employment law and practices. Networking opportunities with like-minded employers and resource providers with services to support your business.
Light refreshments provided
Hosted by: The Washington County Recovery Friendly Workplace Network, with support from Community Caring Collaborative, Sunrise County Economic Council and MaineStreet Business Building.
The training will cover:

Hiring Practices
Workplace Safety and Health
Substance Use in the Workplace
Workplace Policies
Employee Benefits
Family Medical Leave
Recordkeeping and Documentation
Discrimination and Harassment
Termination and Layoffs
Wages and Hours
Employee Privacy
Immigration and Work Authorization
Dispute Resolution
Compliance with Labor Laws

Agenda:
1-2 pm: Networking & Refreshments
2-4 pm: Training
4-5 pm: Ask the Expert
Register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/nwyc5s7/lp/91a9f8b4-aff6-4e15-b2cb-a9bf666329ca

Community Outreach (Jonesport)
2024-08-08 11:00 - 13:00 | Peabody Memorial Library, 162 Main St, Jonesport, ME, 04649, United States
Community Outreach at Peabody Memorial Library in Jonesport!
Don’t miss our community outreach event at Peabody Memorial Library in Jonesport on Thursday, August 8th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM! Come to the library at 162 Main Street, Jonesport, and chat with team members from Sunrise County Economic Council. See you there!
For updates, please follow our Facebook event page!

Washington County's Working Waterfront
2024-08-12 10:30 - 12:00 | UMM, Science 102, 116 O'Brien Ave., Machias, ME, 4654, United States
Washington County’s Working Waterfront
August 12, 10:30 am-12 pm
Umm Science 102 & via Zoom
Organized by Sunrise Senior College
Over the past decade, many changes have occurred at working waterfronts. Join us in finding out about the importance of lobster fishing in Washington County, upcoming regulations around this industry and what the impacts may be from this. We will also learn about the ways in which the people of these working waterfronts can diversify their business interests and therefore increase their resilience both as a business and as a community.
Presenters: Amanda Smith and Dodie Emerson are Business Advisors with Sunrise County Economic Council and work directly within the Working Waterfront community to assist with fostering its vitality.

Small Business & Entrepreneurship Drop-In Hours (Eastport)
2024-08-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Peavey Memorial Library, 22 Water Street, Eastport, ME, 04631, United States
Come See Us at Peavey Memorial Library in Eastport!
Team members from Sunrise County Economic Council’s (SCEC) Small Business & Entrepreneurship team, along with representatives from CareerCenter, will be at Peavey Memorial Library, 26 Water Street, Eastport, for drop-in hours on August 28th. SCEC staff will be available from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and CareerCenter staff will be there from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Be sure to stop by – we’re here to listen, support, and connect with you.
See updates on our Facebook Event page!

Seaweed Farming Information Session
2024-09-10 15:00 - 17:00 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Learn About Seaweed Farming!
Atlantic Sea Farms is transforming coastal food systems by partnering with fishing families to farm regenerative kelp. Their innovative approach helps protect the environment while supporting local farmers.
Event Highlights:
* Discover Their Mission: Learn how Atlantic Sea Farms is making an impact on the food system and coastal communities.* Meet the Experts: Connect with professionals dedicated to sustainability and food safety.* Explore Partnerships: Find out how maritime businesses can benefit from seaweed farming.
Atlantic Sea Farms is committed to creating positive change through sustainable seaweed farming. Join us to see how you can be a part of this movement.
For more information and to RSVP: contact Amanda at asmith@sunrisecounty.org or Dodie at demerson@sunrisecounty.org

Business Resource & Contracting 101
2024-09-19 17:00 - 19:00 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Attention business owners and entrepreneurs! If you are interested in meeting with different resource providers available to your business, please stop by the MaineStreet Business Building on September 19 between 5 and 7 pm. We will have networking time, business resource providers and a time to discuss business contracting. Whether you are an established business looking to expand, or have a hobby that you would like to grow into a business, this event is for you!
Please contact Jessica Crowley with any questions.

SCEC 2024 Annual Economic Summit
2024-10-16 10:00 - 14:30 | Danforth Town Hall, 52 Depot Street, Danforth, Maine, 04424
Sunrise County Economic Summit 2024
Please join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities of housing, digital equity & the tourism economy in rural Maine.
Save the Date! Oct 16, 2024 10:00am – 02:30pm
Danforth Town Hall
52 Depot St, Danforth, ME 04424

Business Resources and Contracting 101
2024-10-17 14:00 - 18:00 | EMDC Office, 248 State Street, Suite 15A,, EMDC's office at 248 State St., Suite 15A, ME, 04605
Drop in hours for Business Resources and Contracting 101. Jessica Crowley will be available to answer any questions you may have about growing your business in Downeast Maine.

Also, as the Maine APEX Counselor at SCEC, Jessica can help you learn more about securing federal contracts for your goods or services.

From funding resources to technology tools you can use to propel your existing business or idea, we will have a list of available resources ready for you.

Essential Insurance Planning for Your Business (Machias)
2024-10-28 12:00 - 14:00 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Protect your business with this essential 90-minute training from Andrew Beers of Beers Agency, LLC. In this training, you’ll learn about:
– Insurance/liability coverage
– Specific workplace issues including Narcan training and having it on site
– Property Casualty
– Business/Personal Insurance
– Flood Insurance
– Workers Comp
– Employee Protection Liability
– Directors & Officers Liability
– Business Interruption Insurance Endorsement
– Rental Property Liability
– Emerging Trends: Cyber-security, Credit cards, AI, HIPAA
Lunch will be served. Q&A to follow training.
Register Here!

MaineStreet Business Building Outreach
2024-11-13 11:00 - 13:00 | Peabody Memorial Library, 162 Main St, Jonesport, ME, 04649, United States
Learn about the services available at MaineStreet Business Building (MSBB). The MSBB team provides – at no cost to you – business coaching, career development resource, technical assistance, help with finding and winning federal contracts, technology advising, diversifying income streams, and more. We can also provide assistance with gap loans and micro-financing.
MSBB Outreach @ Peabody Memorial Library
162 Main Street, Jonesport
Date: November 13
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Business Funding and Resources Forum
2024-11-19 14:00 - 18:00 | Machias Savings Bank Community Room, Center Street, Machias, ME, United States
Date: November 19
Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Machias Savings Bank Community Room, Center Street, Machias
Details: This forum provides access to funding sources, resources, and services, with multiple rounds of speed networking and door prizes.
More Information: Business Funding and Resources Forum

Start Your Own Child Care Business!
2024-11-21 17:00 - 19:00 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Ever thought of starting your own child care business? Are you babysitting for neighbors and friends today? Come hear from moms, grandparents, former teachers and others who have started child care businesses in their homes and in vacant spaces in their towns. They have turned their passion for children into a profession – creating a good job for themselves and enabling parents to work full time, knowing their child is happy and safe. Discover what it’s like to set up your own small business and go through the licensing process. Join us at the MaineStreet Business Building at 19 Main Street in Machias on November 21st from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Email cei.childcare@ceimaine.org with your questions. RSVP by clicking here today!

Basic Internet Safety
2025-01-06 11:30 - 12:30 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Date: January 6th
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main Street, Machias
Details: Staying safe online is essential in today’s world. This one-hour overview class teaches you how to keep your information and your devices safe. Presented in partnership with the National Digital Literacy Center and MaineStreet Business Building.
Requirements: All participants must be enrolled with NDEC and registered for the class.
More Information & Enrollment/Registration: Register here or contact Dodie at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-217-2132 for assistance.

Claim What’s Yours: A Guide to Tax Credits for Working Families
2025-01-07 14:00 - 15:00 | Online via Zoom
Claim What’s Yours: A Guide to Tax Credits for Working Families
Date: January 7th
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Zoom
Details: Join us to discover tax credits that can put money back in the pockets of hardworking taxpayers! This event will cover both refundable and non-refundable tax credits to help you save. Presented in partnership with the IRS and MaineStreet Business Building.
Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1XmZVm4Gbn/
More Information: Contact Dodie at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-217-2132.

Disaster Preparedness for Small Business
2025-01-14 11:30 - 12:30 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Disaster Preparedness for Small Business
Date: January 14th
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main Street, Machias or Zoom
Details: Join MSBB, the Red Cross, and the Machias Chamber of Commerce for a disaster preparedness session tailored for small businesses.
Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/19f7Hgu51o/
More Information: Contact Dodie at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-217-2132.

Identifying Frauds & Scams
2025-01-15 16:30 - 17:30 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Identifying Frauds & Scams – Postponed – Stay tuned for new date/time!
Date: January 15th
Time: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main Street, Machias
Details: Learn about the different types of internet fraud and scams, the dos and don’ts of protecting yourself online, and what to do if you have experienced online fraud or abuse.
Requirements: All participants must be enrolled with NDEC and registered for the class.
More Information & Enrollment/Registration: Register here or contact Dodie at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-217-2132 for assistance.

Alternative Lobster Fishing Gear Demonstration (Jonesport)
2025-02-18 13:00 - 17:00 | Jonesport, Maine, Jonesport
Details:

Live demonstrations and discussion around alternative lobster fishing gear
February 18, 2025 from 1-5 pm
Open to area fishermen and the public; hosted by SCEC and the Maine Department of Marine Resources
Come anytime between 1 and 5 pm
No cost to participate

Jonesport, Maine – Area fishermen and members of the public are invited to an afternoon of demonstrations and informal discussion focusing on the use of alternative lobster fishing gear on February 18, 2025 from 1-5 pm in Jonesport. The event, hosted by Sunrise County Economic Council in partnership with the Maine Department of Marine Resources, will include live demonstrations of alternative gear on the Jonesport town marina (2 Marina Way, at the end of Sawyer Square) as well as simultaneous informal discussions about the program and testing of alternative gear at the Peabody Memorial Library (162 Main St, Jonesport). Attendees are welcome to come anytime at either location between 1 and 5 pm, as demonstrations will be based on their specific interests and needs.
The Jonesport demonstration day is an effort to familiarize fishermen and the public with alternative gear, including acoustic on-demand systems as well as other technologies, such as timed- and spring-releases. Alternative gear technology may provide an opportunity for fishermen to access areas which prohibit the use of traditional gear due to federal rules designed to protect the North Atlantic right whale. Goals of testing and research include identifying which designs and technologies work best, ensuring that the legal use of the gear can be enforced, and providing information to those fishermen who will make the business decision to access those restricted areas, or not, in the future.
The Maine Department of Marine Resources is working with Sunrise County Economic Council to provide Maine fixed gear fishermen free access to different gear types to test through their Innovative Gear Library, launched in 2024. The Library supports fishermen in real-world testing and in understanding of the capabilities and challenges of a broad range of alternative gear technologies and supports.
Participation by fishermen is crucial in this effort. Without industry’s participation in testing, technology could be approved and required that does not work for Maine fishermen. This is an opportunity to provide data and input that manufacturers and regulators will hear.
Registration is not required to participate in the Jonesport demonstration day. Refreshments will be provided. For questions, please contact Brooke Hachey at 207-707-0962. Please check sunrisecounty.org and the Sunrise County Economic Council Facebook page for updates due to inclement weather.
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Image above: Alternative Gear from top left, clockwise: Gear Beacon, Lift Bag/Acoustic Release (On-Demand), Stowed Rope/Acoustic Release (On-Demand), Timed Release

Facebook Pages for Business
2025-02-18 13:30 - 14:30 | MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main St., Machias, ME, 04619, United States
Facebook Pages for Business
Date: February 11th & 18th
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Location: MaineStreet Business Building, 19 Main Street, Machias
Details: This two-session class teaches participants how to create their first Facebook Page for a business, nonprofit, or cause. We also go over inviting friends to like your page, producing content, and page management to have a successful page on Facebook. Participants must have a device connected to the internet and a Facebook account for this class.
More Information & Enrollment/Registration: Register here or contact Dodie at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-217-2132 for assistance.

Brand Power: Define, Build, Thrive
2025-02-25 14:00 - 15:30 | Online via Zoom
Discover how to craft a compelling brand identity that resonates with your audience. Learn to maintain your brand’s voice and create lasting impressions.
Register here for this individual workshop. Interested in earning college credit (at no cost to you)? Complete this additional form through WCCC and you’ll be added to the online course. Please reach out to Amanda Smith, course co-facilitator with questions.

Website 101: Build, Refresh, Engage
2025-03-04 14:00 - 17:00 | Online via Zoom
Whether starting from scratch or updating your site, learn the essentials of website design, content strategies, and tips to boost your online presence.
Register here for this individual workshop. Interested in earning college credit (at no cost to you)? Complete this additional form through WCCC and you’ll be added to the online course. Please reach out to Amanda Smith, course co-facilitator, with questions.

Get Seen: Boosting Market Visibility
2025-03-11 15:45 - 17:00 | Online via Zoom
Maximize your exposure with low-cost certifications, listings, and business directories, and learn how tourism impacts visibility and how to stand out in competitive spaces.
Register here for this individual workshop. Interested in earning college credit (at no cost to you)? Complete this additional form through WCCC and you’ll be added to the online course. Please reach out to Amanda Smith, course co-facilitator with questions.

Digital Edge: Marketing Your Business Online
2025-03-18 14:00 - 15:30 | Online via Zoom
Master the art of online marketing. Explore strategies to increase traffic, enhance engagement, and convert visitors into loyal customers.
Register here for this individual workshop. Interested in earning college credit (at no cost to you)? Complete this additional form through WCCC and you’ll be added to the online course. Please reach out to Amanda Smith, course co-facilitator with questions.

Cyber Smart: Protect Your Business Online
2025-03-18 15:45 - 17:00 | Online via Zoom
Understand the risks and learn best practices to safeguard your business from cyber threats. Stay proactive to keep your data and operations secure.
Register here for this individual workshop. Interested in earning college credit (at no cost to you)? Complete this additional form through WCCC and you’ll be added to the online course. Please reach out to Amanda Smith, course co-facilitator with questions.

Machias Community Connections: Jobs, Resources, and Family Fun Fairs
2025-03-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Machias Memorial High School, 1 Bulldog Lane, Machias, ME, 04654, United States
Event Details:
Machias Fair
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 (Snow date: March 26)
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Machias Memorial High School Gym
We’re thrilled to invite you to the Community Connections: Jobs, Resources, and Family Fun Fairs—exciting events where you can connect with local talent, showcase your organization, and engage with the community in a meaningful way!

Check Out Who’s Coming to the Community Connections Fair!

We have an amazing lineup of employers and resource providers ready to meet you! Whether you’re looking for a job, career support, helpful community resources, or a fun time—this event has something for everyone!

Employers:

AC INC
Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center
Cooke Inc. – Cooke Aquaculture/True North Maine
Downeast Community Partners / Head Start
Eurovia -Eurovia Atlantic Coast dba Northeast Paving
Harrington Family Health Center
HealthWays/Regional Medical Center at Lubec
Living Innovations
Machias Savings Bank
Evergreen Care Homes – Magnolia Assisted Living
Maine Seacoast Mission
Mano en Mano | Hand in Hand
University Credit Union
Wings for Children & Families

Resource Providers:

Adoptive and Foster Families of Maine, Inc. & The Kinship Program
Aroostook Mental Health Center – AMHC
Better Business Bureau
Community Caring Collaborative – The Connection Initiative
Coastal Enterprises Inc. – Business Development Services
Downeast Rainbow Alliance
Child Development Services Early Intervention Program – Early Intervention for ME
Eastern Maine Development Corporation
Family Futures Downeast
Gateway Retirement Solutions
Groups Recover Together
Help Me Grow Maine
JMG
JustME for JustUS
Know Your OPTIONS
Machias Ambulance
Maine APEX Accelerator
Maine State Library
MDOA Migrant Seasonal Farmworker Program
Maine Department of Education – College & Career Success
MaineStreet Business Building
National Digital Equity Center
NextStep Domestic Violence Project
PathStone Corporation Maine
Preble Street – Labor Trafficking Outreach
American Red Cross of Northern New England
Start Up Downeast
University of Maine
Washington County CareerCenter
Washington County Community College (WCCC)
Washington County Recovery Friendly Workplace Network

Plus, enjoy games, crafts, face painting for the kids, and exciting door prizes!

For any questions, feel free to reach out to me at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-271-2132.
We can’t wait to see you there and work together to make a lasting impact on our community!

Efficiency Hacks: Work Smarter, Grow Faster
2025-04-08 14:00 - 15:30 | Online via Zoom
Boost productivity and reduce costs. Discover best practices for streamlining operations, optimizing resources, and driving sustainable growth.
Register here for this individual workshop. Interested in earning college credit (at no cost to you)? Complete this additional form through WCCC and you’ll be added to the online course. Please reach out to Amanda Smith, course co-facilitator with questions.

Financial Fitness: Monitor Your Business Health
2025-04-15 14:00 - 15:30 | Online via Zoom
You don’t need to be a finance expert to succeed. Learn how to track key metrics, manage cash flow, and maintain financial stability as your business grows.
Register here for this individual workshop. Interested in earning college credit (at no cost to you)? Complete this additional form through WCCC and you’ll be added to the online course. Please reach out to Amanda Smith, course co-facilitator with questions.

Calais Community Connections: Jobs, Resources, and Family Fun Fairs
2025-04-24 10:00 - 13:00 | Washington County Community College, College Drive, Calais, ME, 04619, United States
We’re thrilled to invite you to the Community Connections: Jobs, Resources, and Family Fun Fairs—exciting events where you can connectwith local talent, showcase your organization, and engage with the community in a meaningful way!
Event Details:
Calais Fair
Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Washington County Community College Gym
Why Participate?
Recruit Talent: Meet eager job seekers ready to explore your opportunities!
Increase Visibility: Show how your organization is making a difference.
Build Connections: Network with fellow employers, community leaders, and partners.
Engage with the Community: Join a fun, family-friendly event that brings everyone together!
How to Register:
For any questions, feel free to reach out to me at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-271-2132.
We can’t wait to see you there and work together to make a lasting impact on our community!
