Best Small Business Resources in the Auburn Area
Starting a business is a life-changing experience. Maine has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Auburn area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in Maine.
Resources Available in your Area
Lewiston Auburn Economic Growth Council
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
The LAEGC is a point of contact for entrepreneurs and local business owners looking to start or expand a business. They can directly mentor and assist with some topics, and will do their best to connect clients with local resources. These services are offered for free and are a great way to talk to an experienced advisor about launching a business.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Suite 400, 415 Lisbon St.
Lewiston, ME 04243
(207) 784-0161
HOURS OF OPERATION:
M-F 9am to 5pm
Auburn SCORE
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Maine SBDC Auburn
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
New Ventures Maine
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
New Ventures Maine is a non-profit economic development organization, offering free workshops and one-on-one counseling to adults seeking financial security. This statewide organization has several locations offering classes about starting a business (as well as personal finance and career preparation). The classes are free and offered online and/or in person.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth