Nominations are open for Maine's best family-owned businesses

File photo / Tim Greenway Catherine Wygant Fossett of the Institute for Family-Owned Business says the “family-owned” story can be an important marketing tool.

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By Tina Fischer

The Institute for Family-Owned Business is calling for nominations for the Maine's best family-owned companies, to be recognized at its 25th annual awards ceremony this fall.

A family business is one in which an owner either shares ownership or works in the business with at least one other family member. The company must be based in Maine, but membership in IFOB is not a requirement.

Catherine Wygant Fossett, executive director of the IFOB, said, “These awards not only celebrate business excellence, but the values, resilience and deep-rooted community ties that make family businesses so extraordinary. We encourage everyone to take a moment and nominate a business that inspires them.”

An independent judging panel will select winners based on the nature of family involvement, the success of the business, the work environment and innovative practices or strategies.

Honorees for 2024 included Bouchard Family Farm, Fishermen’s Net, Hussey Seating Co., Main Line Fence, McDougal Orchards, R.J. Grondin & Sons, and Waltz & Sons Inc.

The deadline for nominations is June 20 and businesses will have until June 27 to complete the application which details their business history.

Any family business that completes the application and is not a current member of the IFOB will receive a free membership for the remainder of the year, including access to educational programs, networking events and more.

The Maine Family Business Awards are presented in partnership with MEMIC, the employee safety insurance group, during a gala event Oct. 8 at Thompson’s Point, Brick South, in Portland.

More information can be found on the institute's website.