Mainebiz

V O L . X X X I N O. X I X 46 Fact Book / Doing Business in Maine B U S I N E S S R E S O U R C E S In Biddeford, construction delays pushed their start date from November, but they finally opened for business in January 2024 with an SBA guaranteed loan through Kennebunk Savings Bank. eir journey started with a compre- hensive business plan, a good location in Biddeford and significant experience. Unfortunately, they were met with sev- eral challenging events. Leasehold reno- vations originally slated for completion in November weren't completed until late January. After the shop opened, the landlord leased an adjacent space to a café placing a direct competitor in close proximity, which likely reduced sales. en the city of Biddeford initiated a major sewer line replacement and repav- ing project, making access to the shop difficult, having an immediate impact on the business. rough these challenges, the Edelweiss Pastry Shop has been able to not only survive but grow and achieve profitability. Valentina and Alex learned the importance of adapting their offer- ings to better serve their customers while remaining true to their vision of quality. ey've optimized their service, ensuring quick and efficient options for weekday commuters, and offer an expanded selec- tion on weekends for customers who prefer a more leisurely experience. SCORE mentor Bill Webster walked them through the needed steps to start a successful business. He helped them polish their business plan and critical financial projec- tions, and even brought in a SCORE subject matter expert to assist with marketing and help reduce expenses. With the combination of SCORE assistance and an SBA guaranteed loan, Edelweiss Pastry Shop has not only survived a host of challenges, but has flourished. Guilded Makers supports other small businesses For many people trying to break into the design and fashion industry, the challenges of finding the right con- nections, sourcing materials, breaking into new markets, and developing new products can be critical barriers. With years of experience work- ing with large national brands like L.L.Bean, Marks & Spencer and Timberland, Rachel Battarbee saw an opportunity to support small busi- nesses and startups and decided to launch Guided Makers. Since launching in 2019, Guided Makers has been working with small businesses in Maine and beyond to help them start their own brands and develop prototype designs. Recognizing her own need for guidance, Rachel reached out to the strong network of SBA Resource Partners in Maine as she became established. A SCORE mentor was able to pro- vide insight into financial planning and Ruth Feldman at the Women's Business Center helped Rachel develop her busi- ness strategy, making sure she stayed on track with her goals and plan for the business. In 2023, Rachel also participated in the SBA's THRIVE program, which is designed to help small businesses plan for sustained and significant growth. Now with over five years in busi- ness, Guided Makers has supported over 59 other small businesses, 18 of which are Maine-based, with their extensive services. By leverag- ing Rachel's skills and working with partners like the SBA, SCORE and the Women's Business Center, Guided Makers has been able to build a strong foundation and posi- tion itself to become a go-to resource for small fashion brands. With the recent addition of an SBA Woman- Owned Small Business certification, Guided Makers now has greater access to potential clients across the country through government con- tracts and can help even more clients develop products that can compete with large brands. Insulation you can count on After years of working for a large insu- lation contractor, Wes Grover decided it was time to start his own business. A U.S. Army veteran, he was dissatisfied with the profit-driven approach of his previous employer. He wanted his new venture to prioritize customer service and employee well- being. His goal was to create a work- place culture grounded in fairness, inclusivity, and respect. For guidance in starting his new business, Grover turned to Business Advisor Chris Dodge at the Maine SBDC. Together, they worked on establishing his LLC, with Chris providing valuable support as Grover developed his business plan and finan- cial projections. ese tools proved instrumental when he pitched his business to investors. In addition to a significant owner's investment, Wes was able to secure the funds needed to launch his business. Reflecting on his work with the Maine SBDC, Grover comments, "Chris is very knowledgeable, engaging, and offers excellent direction and advice. I would not have been able to build this business as quickly as I did without her knowledge and input." Grover officially launched Acadia Insulation in February 2024 in Lewiston. Veteran-owned and oper- ated, the company specializes in batt, blown-in and spray foam insulation, primarily serving builders and contrac- tors in the new construction mar- ket. Exceeding expectations, Acadia Insulation closed its first year doubling initial revenue projections. Grover plans to expand services to offer clients a one-stop solution for their needs. e company is project- ing another significant increase in revenues for 2025, driven by new service lines and continued growth. With plans to build a dedicated sales team and launch advertising initia- tives, Acadia Insulation aims to reach new markets and strengthen its posi- tion in the industry. Acadia Insulation's veteran-led team embraces the motto "Adapt and overcome," guiding the team through challenges such as equipment break- downs, weather disruptions and shift- ing project schedules. By focusing on what they can control and integrating themselves into their customers' build teams, the company fosters a cul- ture of trust. is ensures projects are completed to the highest standards, and where Grover's leadership reflects a commitment to creating a company where values drive success. » C O N T I N U E D F RO M PA G E 4 2 Resources SCORE www.score.org www.scoremaine.org SBDC www.mainesbdc.org VBOC www.vbocnewengland.org WBC www.ceimaine.org/women SBA Maine District Office www.sba.gov/me Maine_DO@sba.gov 207-622-8551 Rachel Battarbee, founder of Guided Makers Acadia Insulation was founded by U.S. Army veteran Wes Grover, seen here with his family. P H O T O / C O U R T E S Y O F R A C H E L B AT TA R B E E P H O T O / C O U R T E S Y O F A C A D I A I N S U L AT I O N

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