unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
Unlike specialists, emergency physicians must be prepared to perform a wide range of procedures under pressure. Some of these procedures are complex and rarely performed, leading to “skill decay.” Dr. Jason Hine realized that while continuing medical education is mandatory, there wasn’t a convenient way for doctors to regularly practice rare and life-saving procedures independently.
"Tina has been an invaluable resource for us. Her knowledge, guidance, and patience have greatly impacted our business planning and acumen. We wouldn't be where we are without her and the Maine SBDC!”
Dr. Hine teamed up with Sue Rose, an expert in medical education, to launch SimKit. SimKit is an innovative platform offering procedural videos, point-of-care infographics, and instructional pages. Subscribers also receive monthly kits with materials for hands-on practice.
Seeking guidance, Dr. Hine and Sue Rose turned to the Maine SBDC, where Business Advisor Tina Oddleifson provided crucial support. Since 2021, they have worked together on market research, business planning, financial projections, funding, bookkeeping, and marketing. Along the way, they also sought guidance the Maine Center for Entrepreneurs, and multiple industry experts. SimKit also received funding from the Maine Technology Institute (MTI).
After nearly four years of hard work, SimKit is finding success in the marketplace. The business has been steadily growing its subscription base among individual doctors and securing contracts with regional hospitals and medical practices in the U.S. and beyond.
After immigrating to Maine from Haiti, Ismael Thadal met Maine native Molly Hodgkins in 2014 over a shared love of ice cream. They began making ice cream at home, perfecting their recipes with the help of friends, family, and community members as taste testers. To deepen his understanding of high-quality ice cream manufacturing, Ismael took an Ice Cream 101 course at Penn State. Confident they had created something special, they began exploring the idea of starting their own business. After hearing positive feedback about the Maine SBDC from other business owners, they reached out for support.
"Our work with Christina has not just 'helped' our business – it made it possible for us to bring our business to fruition. Christina has tirelessly offered her best advice, guidance, and listening ear to us for months as we navigated the ups-and-downs of starting our business. She has celebrated our wins with us and provided us with reassurance and motivation when we faced challenges. Her advice is always wise, selfless, and trustworthy."
Ismael and Molly connected with Maine SBDC Business Advisor Christina Dodge, who helped them develop a business plan and financial projections, assisted with licensing their dairy processing facility, and connected them with a banker for a business loan. They also applied for a grant with the Central Maine Growth Council. Additionally, Maine SBDC Advisor Eric Treworgy shared valuable insights and trade secrets from his extensive ice cream industry experience, helping them navigate the competitive landscape.
Maine Coast Creamery now produces high-quality, custard-based ice cream in small batches with pure, scratch-made ingredients, never using pre-made dairy mixes. More than just a business, it's a labor of love, reflecting Ismael and Molly's long-time passion for ice cream and the strength of community support. The future looks bright as they continue sharing their artisan flavors, expressing their creativity, and scaling their business sustainably.
In 2020, Karen Bachelder started Countryside Kids Childcare, a home-based daycare in rural Maine. After two years in operation and with several families on her waitlist, she saw an opportunity to expand to meet the growing childcare needs in her community. She envisioned relocating to a larger facility to increase her capacity from 12 to 60 children, allowing her to better support local families. On the recommendation of her bank, Karen reached out to the Maine SBDC.
"Tina has been so helpful with organizing my business plan and getting me bank-ready. She was so supportive and helpful, and listened to my concerns."
Karen was connected with Maine SBDC Business Advisor Tina Oddleifson. They worked closely to develop a comprehensive business plan and prepare financial projections. With Tina's guidance, Karen applied for and received funding through the State of Maine's Childcare Expansion Grant Program and secured a loan from Bangor Savings Bank.
Karen's new, larger facility allows Countryside Kids Childcare to offer a high-quality, safe, and engaging environment to more children, prioritizing their well-being, happiness, and early education. With a strong foundation and the support of the Maine SBDC, Karen is excited and optimistic about the future. Her expanded business not only benefits families but also strengthens the wider community. She is now well-positioned to continue delivering exceptional childcare to local families.
