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Entrepreneurial Network

Studies show that a key part of any economic development strategy is a component that promotes the development of entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs are not only valuable to the growth and development of local, home-grown businesses, but provide “outside” businesses a great resource in terms of talent and collaboration. Also, as entrepreneurial projects grow and develop into viable businesses, these become part of economic development progress and can actually attract business. Entrepreneurial development is an important part of workforce development.

The newly developed Kennebec Valley Entrepreneurial Network focuses specifically on entrepreneurs. It is for entrepreneurs and managed by entrepreneurs. There are support organizations involved to ensure that this Network is connected to the resources it needs to fully develop the members of the group and provide every possible opportunity to achieve success.

This group is well connected to local educational institutions, especially Colby College who has taken a very active role. Colby has created the Colby Entrepreneurial Alliance that will educate and mentor Colby students on the principles of entrepreneurship. Both the Network and Colby will work closely together to enhance the students’ experience. This link will help students connect with the resources necessary to support their entrepreneurial development. The Alliance will award start-up capital to the most outstanding business prospectus.

Colby is leading the way for other educational institutions, including Thomas College and the University of Maine, in creating entrepreneurial programs of their own or to collaborate on the creation of programs. There will also be an effort to introduce “entrepreneurial” programs in the regions K-12 programs.

Business leaders and support organizations are excited about the possibilities of economic growth that can result from “growing your own” local businesses. We view this Network of entrepreneurs as a very important and attractive local asset for businesses considering a relocation or expansion in Central Maine.