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Kennebunk to pursue Roux Institute ‘‘Venture Forward’’ business training funded by TIF
Summary
Economic Vitality Director Stephen Houdlette presented a proposed 10-week Roux Institute Venture Forward program to the Select Board on Jan. 13, noting approximately $24,000 in funding would support up to 15 local businesses and include mentorship, a March–May cohort, and post‑program evaluation.
Stephen Houdlette, Kennebunk’s Economic Vitality Director, presented a proposed partnership with the Roux Institute’s Venture Forward program on Jan. 13, describing a 10‑week accelerated training course combining remote and in‑person sessions, mentorship from Roux industry professionals and local business leaders, and a cohort size intended to be about 15 businesses.
Houdlette said the current agreement is approximately $24,000, which the Town has identified in the current fiscal year budget (TIF funding was mentioned). The program would cover business operations, marketing, strategic planning and technology integration, with outreach and cohort selection planned for January–March to deliver training before the summer tourism season.
Board members asked how program success would be evaluated; Houdlette said organizers plan post‑program surveys of participants and mentors. He also said the program is open to businesses of all sizes, not restricted to only brick‑and‑mortar establishments, and that the Chamber of Commerce would be closely involved in outreach and recruitment. Lisa Pratt offered a contact from a past participant who reported benefits from the program.
There was no formal vote recorded on program approval at the meeting; the Board thanked Houdlette for the presentation and discussion.
