Center for Business Growth at NMDC

10/28/2026

We can’t wait to see you in November for the next workshop in the series!

10/28/2026

https://www.wagmtv.com/2026/10/28/ashland-sawmill-nearly-double-production/?fbclid=IwdGRleAVPYbpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBwZG9mAWZkaWQWURLuAinEmwSGef2SK-kIi1_c5imn53NydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR9pLyTt650EqvramNvWk1rezfcc32IZSmFXfpKyWHpxalQlognFUNwIEHyMWw_aem_6E0gU9XbdkJptSreDPYG-g

One county sawmill has plans to expand and will bring over 200 new jobs to the area.

10/21/2026

An occupational therapist with 40 years of experience has launched the Therapy Shoppe in Mars Hill to address the lack of specialized medical supplies in Aroostook County. The newly accredited facility provides vital products such as compression garments, lymphedema care, and mastectomy items, allowing rural residents to access essential healthcare closer to home. 🌟 READ NOW: www.mainebiz.biz/article/in-aroostook-county-occupational-therapist-opens-niche-medical-supply-store/?

📝 Mainebiz

A long-time licensed occupational therapist started the Therapy Shoppe after finding it difficult to locally source specialized therapy products.

10/19/2026

See you soon! 💕 we can't wait to see you all there!

We’re heading to “The County,” and you’re invited!
Live + Work in Maine has partnered with Aroostook Partnerships and Ignite PI to host Newcomer Night at the The Northeastland Hotel in Presque Isle.

Whether you’re new to the area and looking to find community or a longtime resident ready to welcome new neighbors, we’d love to see you there! Join us for an evening of connection and conversation on Thursday, October 29, from 5:00–6:30 PM.

Register here: https://luma.com/i1aaj1n4

10/19/2026

Running a business takes dedication, but success shouldn't come at the expense of your health. Join us for our next Success in 60 session, Running Your Business Well (Without Running Yourself Into the Ground), as we explore practical ways to manage stress, prioritize well-being, and build a more sustainable approach to business and life.

We're delighted to welcome Dr. Mark Cucuzzella, whose distinguished career in medicine, military service, education, and health advocacy brings a valuable perspective to the conversation. Drawing on decades of experience helping others lead healthier lives, Dr. Cucuzzella will share insights on caring for ourselves while meeting the demands of our work.

Monday, October 26 | Noon–1 PM
Health Services Foundation | 18 Military Street, Houlton

Lunch is provided, and guests are encouraged to arrive a little early to connect with fellow business professionals.

A special thank-you to the Health Services Foundation for generously hosting us and supporting opportunities for learning, connection, and professional growth in our community.

10/16/2026

Cushman's Customs has marked an exciting chapter of growth in Presque Isle by officially rebranding as Cushman’s Customs and scaling up its operations. Driven by a need for more space to accommodate their expanding list of customization services, the business transitioned out of the Aroostook Centre Mall into a much larger standalone facility at 60 State Street—the site of a former local supermarket. This major facility upgrade allows their growing team of graphic designers, embroidery specialists, and visual artists to significantly increase production capacity across their core offerings, which include screen printing, custom vinyl signs, decals, laser engraving, and promotional corporate apparel. By transforming a prominent vacant property into a bustling creative hub, the company has firmly established itself as a premier, full-service custom merchandise provider in northern Maine.


📝Mainebiz
📍City of Presque Isle

The initial staff of three grew to 10 in a few months. “We have not slowed down. It’s a great problem to have. We’ve been very lucky to see things continue, to grow and to bring new services,” said one owner.

10/16/2026

Applications are now open for the Top Gun business accelerator program from the Maine Center for Entrepreneurs! Application open through November 18, 2026.

10/15/2026

📣 Applications Open TODAY for New Ventures Maine Marketing Mini-Grants!

Maine small business owners: Looking to expand your reach and strengthen your marketing efforts?

Starting today, October 15, New Ventures Maine is accepting applications for Marketing Mini-Grants of up to $1,000!
These competitive grants help Maine microbusinesses develop new or expanded marketing tools, materials, and promotional activities.

Eligible businesses must:
✔️ Have five or fewer full-time equivalent employees
✔️ Have annual gross sales of $150,000 or less
✔️ Have made sales within the past 12 months
Don't miss this opportunity to give your small business a marketing boost!

🔗 Learn more and apply:

Many small businesses across Maine have benefited from the NVME marketing mini-grant program since its launch in 2010.

05/07/2026

Sales for Future Forward tickets close TODAY! Don’t miss your chance to be part of an amazing experience filled with growth and connection on 8:30-1:00 PM on Thursday, May 14th at Ignite Presque Isle!

⭐Buy Tickets Now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/future-forward-tickets-1986802009293?aff=oddtdtcreator

⭐About The Event:
Join us for a one-day summit designed for rising professionals who are ready to lead, grow, and thrive in their careers!

What to Expect:

Inspiring keynote speaker to kick off the day
Interactive breakout sessions to grow your knowlege in innovation, the power of saying yes, and putting your ideas into action.
Networking opportunities with peers and mentors
Delicious lunch catered by Rodney's/Ignite PI!
Whether you're just starting out or stepping into new role, Future Forward can prepare you for what's next in your career.

Tickets: $30 Professionals & $20 Students

⭐About Momentum Aroostook:
Momentum Aroostook is a young professionals network dedicated to connecting and supporting emerging leaders across Aroostook County, Maine. Through networking events, professional development workshops, community engagement, and recreational activities, the organization helps young professionals build meaningful relationships while promoting career growth and regional vitality. Momentum Aroostook works to strengthen northern Maine by attracting, retaining, and empowering the next generation of leaders who are committed to living, working, and making a difference in The County.

05/04/2026

It is almost showtime! See you this Thursday at 5:00 PM at Ignite Presque Isle! All are invited and participate by voting for their favorite business to receive the 'People’s Choice Award'.

2026 Top Gun Participants:
- Rolling Acres Farm & Ranch, Easton - Kamaria Brathwaite
- RosieO, New Sweden - Rosie Otalora
- W & E Events and Rentals LLC., Woodland - Candi Whitmore
- Northern Trail Marketing, Presque Isle - Tyler Brown
- Aroostook Technologies Inc., Fort Fairfield - Wade McFarland
- Timber Candle Bar and Boutique, Caribou - Gerri Nadeau
- Fiddlehead Life LLC, Island Falls - Elizabeth Carroll

Date: Thursday, May 7
Time: 5:00–7:00 PM
Learn More: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-top-gun-pitch-and-networking-tickets-1987001170991?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true