The Buzz: Top Gun program gets closer to Lewiston-Auburn

Efforts to bring Top Gun to Lewiston-Auburn got a boost last week.

Don Gooding, executive director of the Maine Center for Entrepreneurial Development, said some of the recent $390,000 grant from the Economic Development Administration’s 2015 Regional Innovation Strategies program will be used to continue the work to bring his center’s entrepreneurial program here.

Top Gun, a mix of coaching and competition, already has programs in Portland, Bangor and Rockland. The Twin Cities are one year into what’s typically a two-year process to start a new program, Gooding said.

“We’ve already found a partner with Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council and we’re starting to build the other pieces (sponsors, interested businesses),” he said. “We’ll also be looking to have some people on an advisory board to help with the organization.”

More than 100 Maine businesses have taken part in Top Gun, half existing businesses looking to expand or make changes, half new startups. Between seven and 12 companies are needed for one session, Gooding said.

In September, the Maine Center for Entrepreneurial Development will offer an online eight-week Top Gun prep class, a good precursor for the actual program. L-A companies, take note.

Closing

The wing specials are no more.

Barnie’s Bar & Grill has closed on outer Sabattus Street in Lewiston. No word on what, if anything, might be coming in its place.

Quick hits about business comings, goings and happenings. Have a Buzzable tip? Contact staff writer Kathryn Skelton at 689-2844 or [email protected]