Startup Maine Panel - Selling to the Government, Anchor Institutions, and Global Markets

Event description

This is a Startup Maine event.  To attend this panel discussion with SBA participation, you must purchase a ticket to Startup Maine.  With your Startup Maine ticket, you will gain access to all Startup Maine events.  Startup Maine 2025 | Maine’s Premier Conference for Entrepreneurs & Innovators. 

Session Overview: You Aren’t Too Small to Compete! Expanding your customer base beyond traditional markets can unlock new revenue opportunities and long-term stability for your business. This panel discussion will provide small business owners with essential insights into selling to government agencies, large institutions, and international markets.

Panel Moderators:

• Brad Currie, Senior Area Manager, SBA Maine District Office
• Jim Pineau, Senior Area Manager, SBA Maine District Office

Panelists:

• Brent Hoots, Founder, NaviTrade
• Morgan Rocheleau, Procurement Counselor, Maine APEX Accelerator
• Parker Dinsmore, International Trade Specialist, Maine International Trade Center
• Rachel Piper, Chief Procurement Officer & Executive Director of Strategic Procurement, University of Maine

Discussion Topics:

• How the SBA supports Maine small businesses
• Understanding the procurement process for government contracts and anchor institutions
• The role of APEX Accelerators in connecting small businesses with government buyers
• Strategies for breaking into global markets and navigating international trade
• Export Finance and Credit Insurance
• The benefits and challenges of selling to large institutional buyers

The session will begin with a welcome from SBA representatives, followed by introductions from each panelist. They will provide an overview of their roles, how businesses can engage with their organizations, and the advantages of pursuing government, institutional, and international sales opportunities.

The discussion will then open up for audience participation, allowing attendees to ask questions and gain tailored advice for their businesses.

Who Should Attend?

This session is ideal for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and business development professionals interested in expanding their market reach through government contracts, anchor institutions, or international trade.

Join us for this engaging discussion and gain the knowledge, resources, and connections needed to take your business to the next level.