Southern Aroostook County is fast becoming an outdoor hub for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the region’s four-season draw, but knowing how to get started is key.
Budding entrepreneurs considering such options as bike or canoe rentals, glamping sites, outdoor catering, guide services or even a gear shop, will get tips on bringing their ideas to life at a regional outdoor summit slated next week.
“By bringing together experienced operators, tourism professionals and resource partners, the summit connects ideas with the tools, partnerships and support needed to turn them into real ventures,” said Johanna Johnston, executive director of the Southern Aroostook Development Corporation.
The summit links into a broader regional focus on boosting the outdoor recreation infrastructure across southern Aroostook and neighboring Penobscot and Washington counties. Northern Maine towns such as Island Falls and Patten are already developing an outdoor economy blueprint with support from regional and state outdoor experts.
Additionally, as part of a multi-year outdoor economic development initiative, the Houlton Rotary Club is in the early stages of developing a multiuse trailhead as an access point to northern Maine’s thousands of interconnected snowmobile and ATV trails.
Hosted by the Southern Aroostook Development Corporation, the summit will take place at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, in Island Falls. Community leaders, outdoor recreation businesses, entrepreneurs and residents interested in the future of the region’s outdoor economy are welcome, Johnston said.
“Outdoor recreation doesn’t just support tourism, it creates opportunities for guiding services, lodging, restaurants, retail, events and many other local businesses,” she said.
Participants will explore how outdoor recreation, tourism infrastructure and entrepreneurial ventures can help strengthen rural communities while attracting new visitors and investment to the region, she said. They can also connect directly with resources and identify next steps for developing outdoor recreation ventures.
The evening will feature a panel discussion with outdoor industry leaders who will share real-world lessons on building businesses connected to Maine’s outdoors.
Fred Grant, president of Northern Maine Media, Market Pizza and the historic Temple Theater in Houlton, will moderate the discussion. The Houlton entrepreneur, a business adviser with the Service Corps of Retired Executives, has helped many small and budding businesses get off the ground.
“Grant has helped guide countless business owners through startup and expansion,” Johnston said. “Known for his practical insights and engaging style, his leadership will help drive a lively and informative conversation among the panelists.”
Panelists will include Matt Polstein, founder and owner of New England Outdoor Center and Twin Pine Camps in Millinocket; Scot Walker, co-owner of Va Jo Wa Golf Course, The Slice Restaurant and organizer of the Walker Settlement Concerts in Island Falls; and Sheena McNally, manager of the Maine State Visitor Information Center in Houlton and regional partnership manager who works directly with travelers entering Maine.
Polstein is a registered Maine guide who has long championed the connection
between environmental stewardship and rural economic development. He is the executive director of Maine River Trails LLC and the Maine Outdoor Education Program.
Walker represents the entrepreneurial side of outdoor tourism in Island Falls, and McNally plays a key role in helping travelers discover northern Maine while supporting partnerships that strengthen tourism throughout the region, Johnston said.
She hopes the event will spark collaboration across communities and industries.
“Outdoor recreation is one of the fastest-growing sectors of Maine’s economy,” Johnston said. “Our region has incredible natural assets, and when communities, businesses, and entrepreneurs work together, we can create experiences that attract visitors while strengthening our local economy.”
The Outdoor Adventure Summit will be held in the gym at the Island Falls Town Office, 868 Houlton Road, Island Falls.
