Voyages: Stories of Maine Businesses
Any entrepreneur will tell you the road to a rewarding business has its share of bumps, twists, and surprises. To reach success, it takes determination, and the right set of people to help you navigate the journey. Our Maine credit union has helped hundreds of small businesses gain the funds they need to succeed. Watch a few of our small business voyage stories in the videos below.
Sweet Neighbors
Jennifer and Katie Capron, Katie Made Bakery
When a building came up for sale in their beloved Munjoy Hill neighborhood, sisters Jennifer and Katie Capron knew they had an opportunity. Together, they operated Katie Made Bakery in a small storefront they rented. But, because of their immense popularity, they needed a larger space. They were interested in owning a building because it allowed them to stay as long as they wanted and still be part of the neighborhood. cPort Credit Union worked with Jennifer and Katie to finance the building in which they operate Katie Made Bakery now. They serve delicious baked goods, breakfast, and lunch to loyal neighbors on Congress Street in Portland's East End.
A Vision For Years to Come
Joe Fourré, ITS Green LLC, 4A Property LLC
cPort member Joe Fourré owns ITS Green, an irrigation and lawn care company, and 4A Property LLC, a property management company.
Joe saw something special in Biddeford, Maine, before the economic growth that has since taken hold there. Despite being met with reluctance from his lender at the time, he was able to turn to cPort and share his vision. cPort took the time to understand Joe's plan and worked with him to purchase and restore the buildings with small business loans. Thanks to this supportive partnership, these buildings are now transformed into bustling hubs where businesses thrive alongside residents.
A Little Bit of Hope Goes a Long Way
Charlie Hewitt, The Hopeful Project
Maine artist Charlie Hewitt’s Hopeful Project began as inspiration. Now, his iconic designed word “Hopeful” can be found lit up on buildings, traveling around town car bumpers, and hanging in galleries across the state. Charlie became a cPort Credit Union business member in part because of the work we do in the community, particularly for immigrants new to our country.
Charlie’s message of hope is spreading gradually throughout America. It even made an appearance at the 2021 Presidential Inauguration.
Brick By Brick
Prentice Hospitality Group, Twelve Restaurant
Named by the New York Times as one of America's top 50 restaurants, TWELVE sets the bar high on Portland's up-and-coming waterfront. The restaurant is one of several exciting and successful ventures of the Prentice Hospitality Group. Before opening the restaurant, the historic building that houses the restaurant had to be dismantled and reassembled brick by brick to its current location. cPort Credit Union was chosen to provide financing for the purchase of the property while also meeting the financial needs to turn the previous space into a vibrant, spectacular culinary experience. Diners at TWELVE not only enjoy delicious, locally sourced food but also experience a modern take on Maine's maritime past.
Let cPort Credit Union's Business Team Help Fulfill Your Vision.
The business services team at cPort has the experience and creativity to help turn a great idea into a thriving business. We don't base all our decisions on numbers we see on a page. A good idea and determination to make a positive impact in the community can go a long, long way.