Downeast Proud LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs Peer Group

Downeast Proud LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs Peer Group Sponsored by: CEI Coastal Enterprises REGISTRATION REQUIRED: please register here! About This Event: A facilitated peer group where LGBTQ+ business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can build stronger businesses—together. Grow your business alongside a trusted community of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. In this facilitated peer group, you’ll work through real challenges, exchange practical ideas, build valuable connections, and stay accountable to the goals that matter most. To encourage open, useful conversation, participants will be thoughtfully matched with peers at similar stages of growth and from non-competing businesses. Who Should Attend: Designed for established business owners and people preparing to launch a business. You do not need to have every answer—just bring a willingness to share, learn, and take action between sessions. Dates/Time/Location: Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026 (Meets every third Tuesday from October to May: 10/20/26, 11/17/26, 12/15/26, 1/19/27, 2/16/27, 3/16/27, 4/20/27, 5/18/27) Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m. Location: ECC, 15 Casco Street, Portland, Maine What You’ll Gain Eight monthly facilitated sessions focused on business and personal growth A participant-led agenda shaped during the first session around the issues members care about most Practical discussion topics that may include: Access to capital, funding, and LGBTQ+-friendly lenders Business acquisition and succession strategies Authentic, inclusive marketing and branding Welcoming workplace culture and talent development Networking, visibility, partnerships, and community impact Policy awareness, resilience, and mental well-being Strategies for scaling, innovation, and sustainable growth …. (to be determined by class) Two biweekly milestone check-ins to maintain momentum and accountability A confidential, supportive setting for sharing challenges, ideas, resources, and connections Connections to Maine resources, networks, and services that can help your business grow Facilitator: Eric Treworgy, a Business Advisor with Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI), brings more than 35 years of experience in sales, marketing, and startup operations—as well as firsthand experience as an LGBTQ+ small business owner in Maine. Cost: Free! Bring a challenge, a goal, or a new idea. Leave each session with trusted connections, practical insight, and clear next steps for your business. Reserve your place today!