Enhanced Programs, Events for 2012 for Institute for Family-Owned Business

Contact: Gina Weathersby 207.798.2667, gina@fambusiness.org
 

Brunswick, ME (January 11, 2012) – The Institute for Family-Owned Business, a non-profit organization that has served family-owned businesses throughout Maine for over 17 years, is announcing an enhanced level of programming and events for 2012.

"Our board of directors, volunteers, corporate partners, and committee members have worked tirelessly to create an enhanced experience for both members and prospective members who participate in programs and events this coming year," reports Executive Director Gina Weathersby. "Programs will prove to be enlightening, informative, educational, motivating and fun!"

"The Institute's commitment to supporting, strengthening and empowering family-owned businesses throughout the state is a responsibility that is not taken lightly,"Weathersby says. The Institute is a comprehensive resource for family-owned business, serving owners, execu¬tives, and employees through a range of continuing education programs, networking opportunities and consulting services.

"We have asked our members to share what they want in program offerings for 2012, and we are going to deliver," says Theresa Cloutier, Board chairman.

The Institute will take its programs and events to a new level by enlisting the support of additional presenters who specialize in the field of family business ownership and understand the many unique challenges family businesses encounter. The Institute is announcing presenters and programming on its website:www.fambusiness.org.

FamBiz After Hours, a new networking event, will be offered every other month. The series begins Thursday, January 19 at Thos. Moser Cabinetmakers in Freeport, 4:30pm to 6:30 pm; reservations required at 207.798.2667

“One of the greatest benefits of membership, we're told by our members, is meeting individuals who share the same experiences that are unique only to family business,"Weathersby says. "They share, learn and support one another. It's a beautiful thing to witness."

New this year are three "Affinity Groups," who share interests and other commonalities. Based on information from Institute members, and prospective members, Affinity Groups developed are Women in Family Business, Next Generation,and Executives Working in Family Business. Groups meet several times throughout the year.

Women in Family Business, the first program, takes place Thursday, January 26, 3:30pm to 6:30 pm at the Cumberland Club in Portland. "How to work a Room" presenters are Maddy Corson of AMG Associates and a Board member, and Colleen McCracken, CEO ofThos. Moser Cabinetmakers. Reservations are required.

Family Business Forum, another new program, serves as a community outreach that is open to the public; membership in the Institute is not required. The launch of this series in April is in partnership with Governor Paul LePage, who shares theInstitute's passion and desire to see family businesses in Maine survive, and thrive.

Program format encourages dialogue between the Governor, the Institute, and family business owners. The focus is gathering information from family business owners concerning their needs and providing information and resources to help them.

For more on the Institute's programs, visit www.fambusiness.org or contact Gina Weathersby at 207-798-2667.

Corporate sponsorships are available for all programs and events.

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Save-the-date for the Institute’s signature annual event, Maine Family Business Awards, on Monday, May 14, 2012, at Marriott at Sable Oakes in Portland.  5:30pm-8:00pm. 

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