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Madison Perfect for Small Businesses New and Old

Derek and Rockie Soucy at In The Light Café

Maine's business community is dominated by small firms. With 97% of business classified by the state's Office of Business Development as small (having 100 or fewer employees), Maine entrepreneurs power the economy in all parts of the state.

Madison is home to a number of small businesses old and new and the business-friendly environment and tight-knit community allows these enterprises to thrive alongside their larger neighbors like Backyard Farms and Madison Paper.

Derek and Rockie Soucy moved to Madison about a year ago from Augusta and now operate the In the Light Café. "We really weren't looking to start a donut shop. We were relocating to Madison to buy a duplex or multi-unit and to work at the new tomato greenhouse. But we loved the people here, they are so friendly and nice," Derek noted. "Rockie has the culinary experience and decided to open the donut shop."

The café now serves coffee, donuts, pastries, breakfast, lunch, sandwiches, homemade soups and takes orders at their location at 36 Old Point Avenue.

Darlene Taylor at work at Shear Delight

Another small business that thrives in Madison is Shear Delight Hair Styling and Tanning salon on Main Street. Owner and stylist Darlene Taylor is a fan of the perks businesses in Madison can enjoy. "I have had a shop in Madison for 18 years. I love the small community feel, the people and the economic growth is very good. You can't beat Madison Electric rates. Everything in my shop is electric, from the hair dryers, tanning bed to the heat. It is still less than most peoples' light bill."

In addition to Madison's low electric rates and a friendly and supportive community, there are other resources that small business owners or those thinking of starting a business can take advantage of. Whether you are thinking of relocating an existing small business or starting a new company, Madison can help get you off on the right foot.

The Madison Business Gateway committee can provide information on the tax incentives and available lots in the business park. Contact Brian Hamel at 207-764-3302 for details on locating in Madison. Additionally, Maine Small Business Development Centers (www.mainesbdc.org/home.cfm) have been providing resources and training to small business owners in the state for over 30 years.

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