Venture Forward Bath
APPLICATIONS OPEN DECEMBER 14, 2026
WORKSHOPS BEGIN MARCH 2, 2027
Be the first businesses in Bath to join Venture Forward Bath, a free workshop series being brought to us by the City of Bath in partnership with the Northeastern University’s Roux Institute. This eight-week program will take business leaders of various industries, sizes, and stages of growth, through a series of best practices, emerging trends, and practical know-how to help your business adapt to the 21st Century economy.
When will the program be held?
The program will begin Tuesday March 2, 2027 and run every Tuesday through May 4th, 3:30pm-5:30pm, with a break the week of April Vacation (April 20, 2027).
Who Can Apply?
Any for-profit business is welcome to apply, though the ideal candidates are those business who are figuratively 3 years to 30 years old. Meaning, this is for businesses who are established and have begun, but haven’t reached retirement yet. However, all businesses will be considered.
In terms of industry, we are open to businesses of all sizes and industries. The selection committee will be intentionally selecting a variety of industry types as the City of Bath wants to support businesses of all backgrounds.
In terms of size, we are looking for businesses who simply don’t have the staff or bandwidth to keep up with the trends and business topics affecting businesses today which includes business of nearly all sizes. Few businesses wish to remain stagnant, and this program invites you to develop new skills and discover new solutions, in a team setting working with other business leaders just like you.
Why Venture Forward?
Bath has a proud tradition of entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, manufacturing, and independent local businesses. Supporting those businesses is an investment in the people, jobs, services, and community connections that make Bath vibrant.
Venture Forward Bath builds on that tradition by helping local entrepreneurs access new ideas, expertise, and relationships that can support their continued success.
What Will Participants Gain?
Venture Forward Bath is designed to help business owners move from ideas to practical next steps.
Participants can expect opportunities to:
Develop a customized growth strategy
Identify business priorities, evaluate opportunities, and develop a practical plan aligned with your goals.
Strengthen your business model
Explore ways to improve operations, refine your products or services, strengthen pricing strategies, and position your business for long-term success.
Reach new customers and markets
Consider new marketing approaches, improve your market positioning, and identify opportunities to expand your customer base.
Explore new technologies
Learn how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, may help your business work more efficiently, solve problems, and adapt to changing markets.
Connect with mentors and experts
Gain access to guidance and perspectives from experienced business leaders and the Roux Institute's entrepreneurial network.
Build relationships with fellow business owners
Learn alongside other Bath entrepreneurs, share experiences, explore solutions, and build connections that can continue beyond the program.
Should You Apply?
- Do you own or operate an established small business and are ready for the next stage of growth? Apply!
- Want to improve your business operations, marketing, or financial strategy? Apply!
- Are you interested in using technology or innovation to work more effectively? Apply!
- Are considering expanding your products, services, customer base, or markets? Apply!
- Want to build connections with other local business owners and learn from experienced mentors? Apply!
- Are you committed to developing a practical strategy and putting it into action? Apply!
APPLICATIONS OPEN DECEMBER 14, 2026
AND ARE DUE FEBRUARY 6, 2026
Bath's business community is diverse, and growth looks different for every business. Whether your goal is to expand into new markets, improve profitability, strengthen your operations, or build a more resilient business for the future, Venture Forward offers an opportunity to explore what's possible.
To learn more about the Roux Institute and Venture Forward: https://roux.northeastern.edu/entrepreneurship/venture-forward/
FMI on Venture Forward Bath, contact Misty Parker mparker@cityofbathmaine.gov or 207-443-8370