Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1508812
5 W W W. F I R S T PA R K . C O M alternative to traditional hubs like Massachusetts and New York. As older workers retire, young job-seekers and employees are coming to Maine and bringing their talents with them, creating a broader labor pool for employers to leverage. When companies like Meyer Tool—headquartered in Ohio—open new locations in our state, the benefits are immense and multifaceted. Not only are direct jobs created, but business expansion also leads to ancillary opportunities for complimentary businesses. For example, if Meyer Tool looks to hire a market- ing or public relations agency in Maine, that ends up benefitting an entirely different industry and its employees. It is the multiplier effect. The year 2024 may bring new uncertainty, but leaders in the business community need to keep our eyes on the ball. Maine must remain a "pro-business" state. We need an all-of-the-above approach to the economy, welcoming large corporations and small businesses to make financial security even more of a reality in our state. Small businesses have unique, compelling stories to tell, but we cannot forget that one large corporation may employ hundreds or thousands of workers in total. For example, T-Mobile—a staple at FirstPark—has added new employees throughout this year. Our state needs all of those jobs—all of the above. I urge the countless innovators in Maine to work even harder in 2024. Now that the coronavirus threat has diminished, we have a unique opportunity to cre- ate a private-sector explosion in our state and expand the economy in transformative ways. As Governor Mills said in her second inaugural, Mainers need to "strengthen and diversify our economy" by "seizing on our spirit of independence and self-reliance." The governor is right, and it involves thinking bigger and outside of our state, if necessary. Seeking new trade partners in other states and perhaps even other countries has always represented a viable strategy for Maine, and it remains imperative today. One of my top priorities at FirstPark is to tap into international markets and reach global prospects that may consider Vacationland as a new business destination. In a global economy, Maine needs to be a pivotal player. From Cumberland to the rest of Maine, let's make 2024 a year of economic development like we've never seen before. Let's reject the pessimism that comes with economic uncertainty. The future is bright, and it's ours to seize. 100% EMPLOYEE OWNED WORKING WITH BUSINESSES & COMMUNITIES to serve their engineering, environmental & surveying needs ME, NH, MA, CT, FL | HALEYWARD.COM MOTORS AUTO GROUP Central Maine Toyota 15 Airport Rd Waterville, ME 04901 Waterville, ME 04901 Waterville, ME 04901 Waterville, ME 04901 (207) 872-5444 Central Maine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat 300 Kennedy Memorial Drive 420 Kennedy Memorial Drive (207) 872-9211 Central Maine Motors Chevy Buick Central Maine Motors Collision Repair 30 Airport Rd (207) 872-5890 cmtoy.com centralmainechryslerdodgejeep.com (207) 872-5890 centralmainechevybuick.com Congratulations to FirstPark and 25 years of building bright futures of businesses in Central Maine Let's reject the pessimism that comes with economic uncertainty. The future is bright, and it's ours to seize.