WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration Tuesday rolled out a health insurance option for small businesses and self-employed people that could lead to lower premiums but may also cover fewer benefits than current plans. Labor Secretary Alex Acosta said the new “association health plans” will allow small business to pool their purchasing power, gaining access […]
small business
Business workshops, training to be offered in Jay
JAY — A business essentials workshop series will be offered at Spruce Mountain High School on the first three Mondays of November. The series is sponsored by the Maine Small Business Development Centers in collaboration with New Ventures Maine, according to a release. The Maine Small Business Development Centers has received funds from the U.S. […]
Planning well to avoid failure
The most common concern new entrepreneurs have is the fear of failure about starting a new venture. These doubts are increased with the seemingly constant news stories about failing or closing small businesses. “The truth is that small business entrepreneurs have a better chance at success than they may realize,” said Ralph Tuttle, Central Maine SCORE […]
Data security workshop offered
NORWAY — Oxford Hills SCORE, together with the Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce, will present a free program and discussion on data security. It is scheduled from 8 to 9 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Norway Town Office, 19 Danforth St. Methods used by the attackers, the potential impact on a small business, and […]
Thinking about starting a business?
Starting your own business can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It can offer numerous advantages such as being your own boss, setting your own schedule and making a living doing something you enjoy. But, becoming a successful entrepreneur requires thorough planning, creativity and hard work. Consider whether you have the following characteristics and skills […]
Lewiston forum discusses ACA for small businesses
LEWISTON (AP) — Small business owners are getting the chance to learn about their options under the federal health care law. Maine Health Access Foundation and the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce are hosting an Affordable Care Act forum on Tuesday at the University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn Campus. The event designed for businesses for […]
APL hosting business workshop
AUBURN — Tracy O’Clair, of TOCmedia, and the Auburn Public Library will present a series of monthly workshops for small business entrepreneurs who are looking to thrive in the digital world. The first workshop, titled Growing Your Business with Email and Social Media, will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at […]
Small businesses invited to learn about Internet
SOUTH PARIS — Small business owners in the Bethel, Rumford and South Paris regions are invited to learn from Nancy Marshall, marketing and communications expert, on how to use the Internet to grow their businesses. Three simultaneous events will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at the following locations: […]
Maine new businesses survive recession better than national average
AUGUSTA — Despite the challenges of the Great Recession, Maine businesses launched in 2008 survived the next five years at a rate better than the national average, according to a new study from the Maine Department of Labor. In 2008, entrepreneurs launched 2,360 new businesses in Maine, according to the study. Ruth Pease, an economic research […]
The biggest change for small businesses under Obamacare you haven’t heard of
Since the Affordable Care Act was made law in 2010, the impact it would have on businesses has been debated in Maine and throughout the country. Today, a mere five weeks from the beginning of open enrollment on Oct. 1, the debate is still raging. Much of the attention about the act’s impact on businesses […]