Congratulations to New Ventures Maine (NVME) small business grantees from the Western, Midcoast, and Southern regions. Each of the featured businesses below have received Jobs for New England Recovery Grants of $5,000 each from Norway Savings Bank.
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston recently awarded grants to banks through their Jobs for New England Initiative. The grants are for small businesses who were impacted negatively by the COVID-19 pandemic and are owned by women, minorities or veterans. Norway Savings Bank received $50,000 in grant money and enlisted the assistance of NVME to identify qualifying small businesses.
Midcoast Region Award Recipients
TerraFlora, owned by Cheryl Tyler, connects people to nature by creating striking vertical gardens, moss-scapes and plant design for interior spaces. Emphasizing dynamic design, TerraFlora offers plantscape options for residential and commercial environments.
The Whole Almond began with one simple goal, to provide the state of Maine with the highest quality almond milk. Myranda McGowan uses two main ingredients in her almond milk: sprouted organic almonds and water; she uses dates as a sweetener.
Designs Adrift blends driftwood with exceptional textiles, various metals, and glass, creating an unusual line of art and furniture. Jennifer Wurst and Michael Fleming are dedicated to the industrious reuse of found wood. Through collaboration with their clients and the combination of driftwood, natural materials, skilled hands and a dedication to the environment, naturally formed yet refined objects, furnishings, and art are created.
Western Region Award Recipients
Jeff’s Jamaican Cuisine of Lewiston, Maine is owned by Sophia and Jeff Bailey. Established in 2018 and located at 940 Lisbon Street, Jeff and Sophia’s food truck serves authentic Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine to their customers. Menu highlights include jerk chicken, curry beans, and cocobread.
Totally Kidz Childcare and Learning Center of Auburn, Maine is owned by Michelle Velilla. The business has been in operation over 11 years and offers quality early care and education to children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. Their mission is to provide children with the best quality care and early education possible.
Southern Region Award Recipient
Aloha Maine! is owned by Renée Conlogue. The shop, located in Gray, specializes in ‘ukuleles, accessories, jewelry and gifts primarily from Hawaii. Renée plans to use the grant to make improvements to her retail space, and marketing for her business.
All of these business owners completed New Ventures Maine business classes. Visit the NVME class schedule for upcoming course information and dates.