Search Engine Optimization (SEO) encompasses the practices and metrics of trying to increase a web site's ranking with search engines. This course will engage learners through a variety of assignments that span the history and technology of the World Wide Web. Students will learn how to leverage both content and technical features in order to increase ranking while also learning about the latest tools to measure performance. These aspects are then incorporated into real-world scenarios that challenge students to apply what they have learned. Click here to register #MindEdge

Small business operators are often faced with the daunting task of advertising and building a brand with a restricted budget. They must also effectively use social media and search engine optimization to differentiate themselves from their competition and attract potential customers. This course is designed for small business owners, entrepreneurs, managers, and other professionals who want to understand the basics of small business marketing. The material explains how to utilize social media marketing, content marketing, and search engine metrics strategically to reach not necessarily a wide audience, but the right audience. After completing this course, small business owners and marketers will be better prepared to promote their services and products in the highly competitive virtual world. Click here to register #MindEdge

The emergence of eCommerce has dramatically reshaped the modern marketplace. Business owners are no longer anchored to a physical store—or stuck paying the overhead costs to operate them. Whether you know exactly what you want to sell or are still fishing around for ideas, this course will guide you through the process of generating product ideas, performing market and audience research, organizing a sourcing process, finding the best eCommerce platform, developing a shipping and fulfillment strategy, and marketing your online store to boost traffic and sales. Click here to register #MindEdge

Joining us – College Savings Superstar AlfondFoundation member, Caroline Palmatier  Maine families have access to two valuableprograms to assist with saving and paying foreducation after high school: the $500 Alfond Grantand Maine’s College Savings program. While theseinitiatives offer great benefits, understanding eachof their features can sometimes be challenging.Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or student, thissession will provide you with information to makethe most of these valuable resources. Join us toimprove your understanding and take steps towardsa successful educational future! 

Presenter: kparsons@famemaine.com

#FAME

#aprilawesomeness

Retirement might feel light-years away, but the financial choices you make now will shape your future freedom. In this 2-night workshop designed for young professionals (ages 25-40), this workshop breaks it down—no confusing jargon, just real-world strategies to figure out exactly how much you’ll need to retire early (or walk away from work) and how to bridge the gap. Through hands-on exercises, you’ll take stock of your income, expenses, and savings to build a personalized game plan—whether that means retiring early, traveling the world, or just having peace of mind. By the end of the class, participants will feel empowered and motivated to take actionable steps in becoming part of the FIRE movement toward (Financial Independence, Retire Early). Bring a notebook, pen, and a calculator—your future self will thank you.

Retirement age April 7 or Younger edition May 7 

Anthony Corsino, owner of Zen Financial Planning, LLC in Andover, MA, holds a BS from Bentley, a Certificate in Financial Planning from Boston University, and holds other designations and certificates from The American College of Financial Services, The College for Financial Planning, and Villanova. He teaches financial planners nationwide in multiple university programs and serves as a subject matter expert at Boston University, Regis College, and through Greene Consulting, which partners with several universities including UNH and James Madison.

#aprilawesomeness

This class will begin with an overview of basic estate planning, including wills, powers of attorney, and health care directives. You will then explore how revocable trusts can help avoid probate and protect your privacy, and how irrevocable trusts can safeguard your assets from nursing home or MaineCare (Medicaid) liens. The discussion will also cover strategies to protect assets from life events such as business failure or the divorce of adult children. Kathryn Bedell, a lawyer based in York, Maine, will lead the class. With 31 years of experience, Kathryn specializes in estate planning, asset preservation, and probate matters.

#aprilawesomeness

Do you know how much paperwork is involved in organizing your estate? This quick overview deals with matters involving Family, Finances, Future, Funeral. You will leave with a list of resources. This is an informational seminar only. Jill Braceland has been successfully delivering seminars in organizing and writing topics to adult ed programs in the local area. Her seminars have a reputation of being interactive and practical, and are presented in an easy, friendly manner. Materials Fee $5.00/pp

#nov2024

There are many different facets to the student loan program that can be powerful in helping you achieve your financial goals but also can be confusing. If you are struggling with your payments, did you know there are several income-based repayment plans as well as deferment or forbearance? Did you know you could get .25% off your interest rate if you sign up for auto-debit on your federal loans? Do you know you can work towards loan forgiveness now if you work for a non-profit, government or tribal agency? Whether you have recently graduated from college or have been repaying your students loans for a long time, join us to learn how to best manage your student loan repayment. Join Nikki Vachon, College Access Counselor from the Finance Authority of Maine as she shares pro-tips and answers questions. #FAME #nov2024