University of Maine System Chancellor Dannel Malloy at a Function at USM in Portland a Few Years Ago. Previously he was the Governor of Connecticut.
The University of Maine System (UMS) is growing the next generation of entrepreneurs and the state’s innovation economy by providing free business and budgeting basics to midde and high school students according to a press release issued earlier this week by Samantha Warren
In the pilot year (2024-25) of its partnership with Everfi, the System’s Maine Center delivered entrepreneurial skill development to 348 students across 16 schools in the state. Two of those schools include Portland Arts and Technology High School and Scarborough Middle School. The complete list of those participating is at the end of this post.
After the training, 71% of Maine students who participated said they now have an interest in starting their own business and 43% said they are “quite” or “extremely” interested. The overwhelming majority also said they feel prepared to identify business opportunities, develop a business plan and calculate the risks of starting a small business.
In the engaging free digital course, which is often incorporated into Maine schools financial literacy curriculum and also helps develop personal budgeting skills, students explore key business concepts and then apply their learning by developing a pitch for their own food truck business.
“Through the partnership, Maine’s public universities are empowering educators and inspiring the next generation of innovators who will start businesses, create jobs and strengthen communities across our state,” said Chancellor Dannel Malloy. “Expanding access to this high-impact, hands-on entrepreneutrial training reflects our System’s commitment to preparing Maine students for rewarding careers and upward mobiility while broadening the small businesses that are the backbone of the state’ economy.”
“Entrepreneurship is at the heart of Maine’s future and by engaging students early, we’re helping them see themselves as the problem-solvers and leaders our economy needs to thrive,” said Maine Center CEO Seth Coogall. “Through our partnerships…………….., the Maine Center is connecting classrooms to the expertise and energy of the entire University of Maine System………….and especially the Maine Business School — so more young Mainers can turn their ideas into impact.”
According to the US Small Business Adminisration, (SBA) 99.2% of businesses in Maine are considered small, with fewer than 500 employees. According to a new report, in 2024-2025, business, management, marketing and related support services majors emerged as the dominant field of study in the System, accounting for 22.8% of all degrees and certificaes conferred with 1,679 completions, nearly double the number awarded just five years ago.
The other schools participating in this pilot program are: Camden Hills Regional High School; Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School; Houlton Junior/Senior High School; Lake Region High School, Leonard Middle School; Loring Job Corps; Mt. Ararat Middle School; Narraguagus Junion/Senior High School; Oceanside High School; T. W. Kelly Dirigo Middle School; Windham Middle School; Winslow High School; Woodland Junion/Senior High School and York High School.
For information on how your school can access the free Venture Entrepreneurial Expedition course through the Maine Center, Everfi and MVF, please contact Jesus Grisanti Clavier at jgrisanti@everfi.com