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W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 11 O C T O B E R 6 , 2 0 2 5 AWA R D 4 0 U N D E R 4 0 Favorite TV show: "Alone!" It is a hidden gem on the History Channel with a dozen seasons. More people should be watching! Personal hero: Mainers — those working tirelessly to preserve our heritage indus- tries, those forging new pathways for our future, and everyone in between. (Along with whoever decided we wouldn't have billboards and that the speed limit on I-95 north of Old Town could be 75 mph!) Favorite quote: "Nobody wins unless everybody wins." [Attributed to Bruce Springsteen] Best way to recharge: I love taking field trips to the beach and woods with my two golden retrievers, Louis and Gus; cruising the blues at Saddleback with my partner, Kate; exercising; playing golf; and mak- ing the rounds between Fort Kent (my hometown), the midcoast (where Kate grew up) and southern Maine. Maine's biggest challenge: Affordability and food insecurity. Dinner party guests: Elizabeth Warren, A m y P o e h l e r, Michelle Obama and Billie Jean King. I think we'd laugh a lot. Living by the saying, 'knowledge grows when it is shared' Kate Bielinski, 38 Owner, Kate Bielinski Marketing & Consulting, Co-founder, Growth Factor Greatest achievement: It's difficult to point to just one because my life has been shaped by many milestones. Today, I'm proud of building two businesses that deliver results for clients while also giving them more freedom in their lives. I believe success should mean fulfillment beyond work, with space for family, growth and passions. As a first-generation immigrant and teen mom, I learned early that the traditional path isn't the only path, and that perspective continues to shape how I lead and help others do the same. Passion project: One of my greatest pas- sions is learning and teaching. There's a saying I love: "Knowledge grows when it is shared." I live that by teaching marketing at Husson University and Eastern Maine Community College, mentoring emerging entrepreneurs and supporting nonprofits and community projects. Lightbulb moment: I realized my value isn't just running ads or executing campaigns but being a strategic partner who helps businesses grow intentionally. Shifting from service provider to growth partner transformed my work, the clients I attract, and the impact I make. C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » Find a credit union near you at mainecreditunions.org Empowering the next generation of Maine's leaders. Innovation and determination drive young business leaders. Maine Credit Unions share that same spirit, while being locally owned, people focused and determined to help your business thrive. That means: • Personalized service • Competitive rates and lending solutions • Financial guidance • Community Investment Whether you're launching your first venture or expanding your company, credit unions provide the financial foundation your business needs to succeed.