“Grow Your Business”

Free “Grow Your Business” Seminar September 6

As part of the Maker Faire events, the Camden Public Library will host a seminar covering some of the free resources and grants that are available to new businesses. Blackstone Accelerates Growth will sponsor the presentation of resources from three groups whose mission is to assist start-up businesses in Maine: the Maine Technology Institute (MTI), the Maine Center for Entrepreneurial Development (MCED), and the University of the Maine. The seminar is on Saturday, September 6, at 1:00 pm in the Jean Picker Room at the Camden Public Library. Please call the library at 236-3440 to register.

The Midcoast Mini Maker Faire will be held in the Camden Amphitheatre on September 6 also, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The Faire is a “hands-on to high-tech” celebration of tinkerers, thinkers, and makers sharing their passions for innovation, creativity, and do-it-yourself activities. All are welcome.

Whether you have an idea for a new startup or are managing an established business, the free workshop at 1:00 pm presented by Blackstone Accelerates Growth will bring together resources from some of Maine’s most prominent partners to answer your questions. Representatives from these organizations will discuss:

– The “Innovation Hub Program” by Blackstone Accelerates Growth. A regional partnership with Midcoast Magnet working to build an intentional community of Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Midcoast focused on growing businesses and the economy. Learn how to be connected to this program and how to get connected to resources and programs to support your growth.

– The “Top Gun Prep” online course offered by MCED. Top Gun Prep is an intensive eight-week session that teaches the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, innovation, money, and marketing. It helps first-time entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea learn the skills necessary to start and run a successful company. The 2014 Top Gun Prep session will begin Wednesday, September 10, and continue weekly through November 5.

– The array of grants as well as development loans, equity capital, and ancillary services offered by MTI. MTI funds entrepreneurs and companies who engage technology to develop innovative products and connects them to resources to help them grow profitable businesses.

– The various facilities and services available to entrepreneurs for product development at the University of Maine System technology laboratories and commercialization accelerator programs. The University of Maine System with its strong research capabilities can assist entrepreneurs in technology-based venture creation.

Need resources to help start, build, or grow your business? This is a workshop you won’t want to miss! There is no fee to attend, but registration is required. You can register by calling the library at (207) 236-3440. If you are not able to attend the workshop, but would like more information, you can get in touch with Blackstone Accelerates Growth at www.blackstonegrowth.com.