The MaineStreet Business Building (MSBB), centrally located in downtown Machias, has rapidly established itself as the premier business hub in Washington County. MSBB has leveraged $1.815 million in funding from grants, philanthropic contributions, and sub-awards from collaborative projects and programs since launch in Fall 2023. The MSBB team supports entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout Washington County, Maine, through affordable professional workspace, one-on-one confidential business advising, workforce training, workshops, resource connections, technology support, federal contracting assistance, and strategic diversification services.

Entrepreneurial Support & Workforce Development:

More than 200 entrepreneurs have been directly supported with personalized advising and technical assistance.
Practical business training and resources have been provided to 1,500+ participants through more than 120 workshops and networking events.
Partners in Entrepreneurial Pathways programs have served more than 400 participants, with nearly 50% from Washington County, contributing to local business startups and growth.

Economic & Community Engagement:

Conducted monthly resource fairs across the county, engaging over 600 community members and 150 service providers to connect essential services with local businesses and residents.
Launched “Corporate Coworking,” membership, expanding professional workspace access for businesses with teams that provide services to Washington County businesses.

Education & Youth Engagement:

Hosted more than 150 students from local high schools and educational institutions, including Sumner Memorial High School, Cobscook Learning Institute, and WCCC at MSBB to explore entrepreneurship and prototype development concepts.
Supported youth through specialized programs, including career exploration events attended by more than 300 students.

Infrastructure & Community Assets:

Opened the facility with state-of-the-art amenities, including co-working spaces, fully furnished private offices, hybrid conferencing, soundproof booths, professional printers, and high-speed broadband, providing 24/7 access for members.

Business Resilience & Innovation:

Welcomed dedicated roles to the team, including a Business Resilience Advisor, Client Technology Advisor, Coastal Opportunities Advisor, and a Downeast Community Catalyst, enhancing strategic support around economic resilience, technology integration, coastal business diversification, and recovery-friendly workplace strategies across workplaces and businesses.
Facilitated significant government contracting successes, including multiple federal and state contracts awarded to MSBB-advised businesses.

Sector-Focused Economic Development:

Advanced statewide workforce training through pioneering educational programs in Forest Products and Aquaculture Technology, involving collaborations with over 30 industry and education partners, positively impacting more than 160 learners.

Tourism & Regional Marketing:

Hosted influential regional meetings, such as periodic DownEast Acadia Regional Tourism stakeholder sessions, actively contributing to tourism promotion and local economic development.

Looking Forward

As MSBB continues to grow, upcoming initiatives include expanded sector-specific programming, intensified regional outreach, and continued support of sustainable business growth and innovation throughout Washington County. With an engaged and professional team providing robust, ongoing support to local entrepreneurs, MSBB remains committed to fostering a thriving economy. For membership inquiries, tours, or more information, please contact Denise Cilley, Associate Director of Sunrise County Economic Council and MSBB Team Leader at (207) 259-5103 or dcilley@sunrisecounty.org.