Aroostook Partnership Kicks Off Free Biz Assistance

Small to medium size businesses in Aroostook County looking to grow, diversify or adapt to a changing economic climate now have another resource for help.

The Aroostook Partnership (AP), a private-public organization, representing more than 100 businesses, the four institutions of higher learning in the region and Northern Maine Development Commission (NMDC), is kicking off a free business assistance program.

“We have many successful small and medium sized businesses in Aroostook” said AP President and CEO Robert Dorsey. “Those companies may have the opportunity for growth, but may not have considered it or simply don’t have the resources to expand, find new markets or assess the bigger picture.”

To help, the Partnership will form business tailored assistance teams to act as advisors or sounding boards for owners desiring help in growing their businesses.

“The initiative is modeled after a similar approach used by the Southern Aroostook Development Corporation based in Houlton,” added Dorsey. “When requested, their Strike Teams’ can provide confidential advice on all aspects of a business, free of charge.”

Services can include: Brainstorming/Business Expansion, Financing Options, Economic Development Resources/Grant Potential, Demographic and Workforce Analysis and Perpetuation Planning.

The Aroostook Partnership will coordinate with business owners to find the right mentors, from the appropriate AP members to assist with unbiased feedback. The Partnership will also leverage services provided by NMDC, such as the Small Business Development Center, government contracting information through the Procurement and Technical Assistance Center and the Economic Development Division.

For more information, contact Dorsey at 498-9103 or by email at rdorsey@aroostookpartnership.org.

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