Come join us at the Springvale Public Library Association for an exciting workshop series on building a business that stands the test of time! Don't miss this opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and take your business to the next level!

You must register for each training separately. If you wish to attend more than one training, after you have registered for one, please pick the date of the next training you would like to attend and fill out the registration. Same goes if you would like to attend all three training classes.

"Building a Strong Foundation for Your Small Business" on April 30, 2025

This dynamic two-hour in-person training session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to launch and grow successful startups. The class provides a comprehensive exploration of the essential components needed to build a robust business foundation.

Key Topics Covered:

What’s Your Purpose?
Effective Market Research.
Business Model Canvas.
Economic Model of a Business.
Legal Entities & Business Licenses.
Access to Capital & Financing Sources.
Developing a Business Plan.
SBA Programs and Services.

Additional Topics: The session will also touch on other critical aspects of launching a startup, providing you with better formulated questions to discuss with your advisor or mentor so you can move forward with confidence.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this training class, participants will have a better understanding of:
Conducting and interpreting market research to validate their business ideas.
Utilizing the Business Model Canvas to refine their business strategies.
Understanding key financial and operational concepts that affect startup viability.
The most common legal entities and obtaining necessary business licenses in Maine.
Parts of a compelling business plan.
Available resource partners for advising and mentoring.

"Persevering After Starting Your Small Business" on May 14, 2025, 11am to 12:30pm

So you started your small business, now what? Work on your business. You must find time to step back from the day to day to work on your business in order to grow. Join the SBA Maine District Office for this in-person training event designed to help small business owners build momentum after launching.

Senior Area Manager Brad Currie will cover key startup steps—like business planning and market research—before diving into strategies for growth, including marketing, sales, accessing capital, and entering new markets. Attendees will also learn how to tap into the SBA’s network of resource partners and support services.

Whether you’re just getting started or ready to take the next step, this session offers real-world insight and tools to keep your Maine business moving forward.

"How Can the SBA Help My Small Business?" on May 28, 2025, 11am to 12pm

Join us for an informative session that provides an overview of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) programs and services available to entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Learn how the SBA can help you start, grow, and succeed through resources such as access to capital, government contracting opportunities, export assistance, business counseling, disaster recovery support, and a wide range of training programs.

Tickets marked "FREE" or as "1 on 1 Meeting with SBA" are your opportunity to set a meeting with Brad Currie Senior Area Manager for the SBA Maine District Office covering Cumberland and York Counties. These 1 on 1 meetings are being held before and after the scheduled training on May 14th and May 28th. Pick you time to meet.

Whether you’re at the ideation stage or looking to solidify your business’s foundation, this class will equip you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to take your startup to the next level.

Workshop Series - Growing a Business That Lasts