Sector Spotlights events feature industry leaders who will share the latest in innovation and collaboration, while providing partnership opportunities through in-person connections.
In April, we’re excited to highlight what’s happening in Washington County and invite you to join us at the event below.
Referred to as the “Sunrise County” because it includes the eastern most point in the United States, Washington County shares an extensive border with the Canadian province of New Brunswick to its east, defined by the St. Croix River, Chiputneticook Lakes, and Passamaquoddy Bay. Residents of the area have maintained generation-spanning, close connections with neighboring New Brunswick. The region relies on trade with Canada, with Canadian tourism and shoppers significantly impacting local businesses in Calais and Lubec.
Anchored by coastal communities like Machias, Eastport, and Beals, Washington County plays a pivotal role in Maine’s ocean‑driven economy. While traditionally reliant on forestry and fishing, the economy is shifting toward entrepreneurship, tourism, and services, bolstered by significant local investment in development. The region blends a proud natural resource heritage with growing leadership in marine science, aquaculture, and small‑business innovation.
Machias serves as a gateway to the county’s entrepreneurial energy. Sunrise County Economic Council works to initiate and facilitate the creation of jobs and prosperity in Washington County by working with a consortium of community-minded businesses, not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, and citizens. MaineStreet Business Building is a vibrant hub of networking for aspiring entrepreneurs and small-business owners throughout Washington County and beyond. From family‑run shops and institutions like Helen’s Restaurant to creative start‑ups, Machias is a tight-knit, evolving, and resilient ecosystem.
A short drive from downtown Machias, Cooke Seafood — a successful example of a cross-border business — plays a central role in sustaining year‑round jobs and developing aquaculture in Maine. South on Beals Island, the Down East Institute stands as one of the region’s most influential marine research institutions, advancing shellfish science, supporting fisheries, and driving innovation that strengthens Maine’s Blue Economy. With deepwater port assets in Eastport, rich Tribal partnerships, and a business community rooted in collaboration, Washington County offers a distinctive environment for trade, research, and investment.
Business Community Gathering
Date: Thursday, April 2, 2026
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Location: West Branch Farms -The Public House
180 West Kennebec Road, Machias, ME 04654
Nestled along the rugged, salt-swept shores of Kennebec Bay in Downeast Maine, West Branch Farms is more than just a destination — it’s a way of life. Born from a simple desire to bring people together, the farm has grown into a vibrant, welcoming hub where community, connection, and coastal beauty come together in the most meaningful ways. At the heart of it all is a farm-to-table philosophy; real food, grown with care and shared with love, brings people closer.
No cost to attend. Light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar available.
Thank you to our partners at Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and Sunrise County Economic Council.