Category: Blog

Recently, when talking about the Fellows program I was asked, “Just how do you prepare someone for a year of living and working in an island or rural community?” Since 1999, the Island Institute has supported over 120 Fellows, and in those years, we’ve learned a little about what it takes to support the work and life of a Fellow. Learn more about our process and goals, meet this year’s Fellows, and read about the projects they’re working on in their respective communities. First, we try to hire well. Second, the Island Institute has supported over 120 Fellows since 1999. This year, the Island Institute is supporting the following Fellows and their work with Monhegan, Millinocket, Islesboro, North Haven, Isle au Haut, Frenchboro, Peaks Island, and Swan’s Island.

It’s no secret that Maine’s coast and islands depend largely on two industries: the fishing economy and the tourism economy. With $4 billion in tourism spending along the coast, it’s hard to ignore the potential for businesses and communities. Are dollars being left on the table? Is the spending happening in my community, or in my business? What can we do to better attract the tourists and visitors who contribute the most—not just dollars—to our local economy?

Dr. Ross Greene, internationally recognized child psychologist and bestselling author, spoke to a packed house of nearly 300 educators, parents, and adults in early April. The free community event, hosted by the Island Institute and Lives in the Balance, offered guests the opportunity to learn how adults can help kids with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges (and all kids) navigate a highly complicated, pressurized world.

On April 17th, the Maine State Ferry Service released a new fare schedule for service to the six island communities they serve. The new fare schedule is the first fare increase since 2009 and comes after the state ferry service backed away from a proposal to give Maine residents a discounted rate compared to non-Maine residents. Different communities will feel the impact of the fare changes in different ways, with Islesboro seeing a substantial increase. On Thursday April 19th, Islesboro residents organized a gathering to highlight the concerns the community has with the new fares.

Digital literacy means having knowledge and competence with digital tools. By improving internet proficiency, businesses benefit from growth, workforce development, health access, community and civic engagement, student education, and all-around quality of life. Improved digital literacy also drives support for better-connected communities. It’s our plan to expand offerings in the coming year, and we would love to hear from you about what would be helpful to keep your business going in this increasingly competitive world.

Winter is often a slower time for business along Maine’s coast, allowing all of us a bit of space to think about upcoming opportunities and challenges facing our businesses. Maybe there is a certification that you have been meaning to pursue for years that would allow you to expand your business. Or maybe you are interested in working with a consultant to be more effective in advertising your products. The Island Institute is offering our Microgrants for Entrepreneurship and Community Impact (MECI) to island and coastal businesses who want to improve the way their business is run. Learn more about applying for a MECI grant, and reach out to us to discuss your idea!