New Ventures Maine recently announced the winners of their statewide 2026 Marketing Mini-Grant Competition. Riversbend Paddle Co. has won a $1,000 marketing mini-grant to boost marketing in Northern Maine.
Riversbend Paddle Co. is a woman veteran-owned kayak rental business based in Southern Aroostook County. The company provides kayak rentals with convenient launch access and delivery options on the Meduxnekeag River and nearby lakes in the greater Houlton region.
The company’s mission is to make outdoor recreation accessible and enjoyable by providing easy, welcoming opportunities for people to experience the rivers and lakes of Southern Aroostook County.
“This marketing mini-grant will provide an important opportunity for us to build stronger visibility going into our first full operating season,” said Owner-Operator Johanna Johnston. “The business launched late last year and experienced drought conditions that limited river access, so we had little opportunity to build awareness. This support will help create marketing materials to present the business more professionally, reach new customers, and introduce more people to paddling opportunities.”
The grant funding will support production of professional photography, website improvements, and branded promotional items to increase visibility and attract new customers.
Mini-grant funding was provided by Katahdin Trust.
To learn more, visit Riversbend Paddle Co. online or find them on Facebook or on Instagram.