Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1544941
W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 29 M AY 1 8 , 2 0 2 6 F O C U S S M A L L B U S I N E S S As part of that push, a coalition of partners is planning to document underused spaces, redevelopment-ready properties and opportunities for upper- floor housing in the downtown district, with a goal to guide investment, policy and development strategies. Another goal is to attract developers, investors and new businesses by providing acces- sible data about downtown properties and development potential. "One of the biggest opportunities we have in Ellsworth is within our existing buildings," says Fisher. 'Play for popcorn' Entrepreneurs are taking note. At 142 Main St., a prominent downtown building called the Newberry Exchange, four small businesses have divvied up the cavernous, open-layout space. After working in hospitality set- tings and retail managerial positions, Katina Stanwood opened Black Moon Public House. "I got tired of working for every- one else and asked, 'What does Ellsworth need?'" she says. Fit-up included installing a hefty 1890s bar and redoing the original tin ceiling and wood floor. Seating includes comfy couches. e menu features signa- ture cocktails, Maine brews and "elevated bar food." e pub hosts local and regional musicians booked by Stanwood's life partner, Steve Peer, a local musician with industry connections. A bluegrass band from Tennessee recently contacted him: ey'd be touring through Maine and could they come and play? Trusted Collaborations. Deep Local Roots. Trusted Collaborations. Deep Local Roots. We listen, provide the data, and get to know your business—so we guide you with insight, not assumptions. With deep roots in Maine and a trusted network, we help you navigate the market with clarity and confidence. 2 Monument Square, Portland, ME | 207.773.7100 | dunhamgroup.com explore available properties > At The Dunham Group, relationships come first. Visit DreamFirstCommunity.com TheFirst.com/1-800-564-3195 A lifetime of firsts led you here. First idea, first sale, first stumble. But where others see setbacks, we see steps forward. We see hard work, resilience, persistence. Dreamers, doers, and difference makers. It's why we don't just partner in the success, we partner in the work. Here for Every First. Some banks invest in plans. We invest in people. Jax van der Veen & Evan Hepburn , Owners of Carousel Marina C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » Growth snapshot Over the past few years, Ellsworth has experienced significant growth, including more than $700 million in new valuation since roughly FY2021, alongside a steady pipe- line of residential and commercial development activity. NOTABLE STATS POPU LATI ON GROWTH : 6,456 to 8,822 from 2000 to 2024 (up 36.7%) ELLS WOR TH GROWTH VER S U S S TATEWI DE R ATE: 3.6× since 2000 VALUATI ON I NC R EAS E: $700M FY2021 to FY2026 S O U R C E : Greater Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce