Program Areas
STARTING BUSINESSES
NVME business planning classes and individual advising services for new and existing businesses provide the opportunity to create a plan for success, develop business management tools, and practice entrepreneurial skills like problem-solving and innovation. site through Grow Your Business Online. I am currently running my business and designing and making art full-time, selling at craft fairs and at my local farmers market. My greatest joy was making ten sales in one day at the market: some customers had seen my website and social media and decided to come to the market to make purchases in person. I never expected such fast results! I’m also donating At this point, I’ve taken every available business course that NVME offers and built my e-commerce “I am physically disabled due to chronic genetic diseases. When I had to end my career in social services to receive medical treatment, I needed to find a way to stay employed and love what I do while working from home. I have always been an artist. I am Indigenous and belong to the Aroostook Band of Mi’kmaqs, one of Maine’s tribal nations. A vocational rehabilitation counselor who helps disabled individuals get back to work told me about NVME. I’m so thankful for this amazing resource! With NVME’s guidance, I decided to start my own business, Top of Turtle Island Gifts (topofti.com).
some of the proceeds to help my people. I’m amazed at how much I have been able to accomplish. Future goals include attending Central Maine Community College for graphic arts this fall and using those skills to add t-shirts, decals and other items to my offerings. Throughout this journey, when I need support, NVME is there for me. There’s nothing like having professionals on your side!”
Melaina, Lisbon
SUMMARY • Served 372 new and aspiring entrepreneurs online • Offered Venturing Forth: Business Planning for Entrepreneurs and Business Basics to 95 participants • Provided Introductory to Self-Employment classes to 124 individuals exploring start-up of their own businesses
New Ventures Maine creates an empowering environment for Maine people to define and achieve their goals. Through classes and individual coaching, we help people find good jobs, further their education, launch small businesses, manage their money and build their assets.
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