Fryeburg Business Association

Interlocking business & community in Fryeburg, Maine!

About FBA

The idea to create Fryeburg Business Association (FBA) was started in 2003 by Donna (Kiesman) Woodward, a lifetime resident of Fryeburg, with the belief that businesses working together for the betterment of all in the community would be a powerful force in getting things accomplished – things that would best serve the majority rather than the few. It took years of effort but with the support and encouragement of Holly (Bell) Foster, Dick Krasker, and a few dedicated businesses the plan finally came together in January 2010. Since that time the Association has continued to grow and strengthen with community spirit and volunteerism, providing Fryeburg with new opportunities, visibility, recognition, and growth while supporting and assisting several non-profit organizations and developing community programs.
 
The Mission of the Fryeburg Business Association is to promote and enhance a thriving business climate that contributes to the community and economic vitality of the Fryeburg Area. Our members enjoy the opportunity to network among fellow business leaders and other active members of the community. During the first 4 years much was accomplished to include but certainly not limited to the following:
 
• The application of a Community Development Block Grant entitled “Fryeburg Downtown Revitalization Plan” in 2011. The request for funding by the town citizenry was unfortunately defeated due to an adverse reaction to the use of terms required by the grant program.
• Representation of the Business Community via FBA on the Town of Fryeburg’s Comprehensive Plan Committee created in 2013.  View the Comprehensive Plan here http://www.fryeburgmaine.org/images/pdf/Ordinances/Complete%20Final%20Document.pdf
• Host and presented Bradley Park Summer Entertainment through financial support of the Mulford Fund and organization and leadership by FBA member, Nancy Ray
• The development of a FBA Economic  Committee in January, 2014. Chaired by Holly Foster and including Mia Purcell from Community Concepts, Sharon Jackson, Town Manager of Fryeburg and Donna Woodward, FBA President. This group met continuously through out the year culminating in the creation of a Town of Fryeburg Economic Development Committee in May of 2015. Through these efforts and the assistance of CEO – Katie Haley,Fryeburg received the very distinguished designation from the State of Maine as a “Business Friendly Town” in 2016.  Visit http://www.fryeburgmaine.org/committees
 
The FBA has worked hard to build and maintain a stronger economic and business friendly 
environment while encouraging community spirit and involvement. The FBA has been a major support to the efforts of the municipality, attracting the attention of state and regional interests along the way. FBA takes pride in being a leader and support system to all things good in and for Fryeburg. The efforts of many business owners and organizers continue to make a visible difference in our town.
 
 
 
Some of the FBA’s accomplishments and involvements:
• Created and established the FBA complete with Website, Bylaws, Committees, Guidelines, 501(c)(6) non-profit status in 2010
• Internet exposure and web presence for all members and the town
• Social media marketing opportunities via FBA Facebook, Twitter accounts
• Network with the regional Chamber of Commerces, Maine Tourism Association, Regional and State Economic and Community Development Programs, and local community organizations
• Liaison with Town of Fryeburg; working in collaboration via Economic Development Committee 
• Representation with Rt. 113 Corridor Commission
• Community survey distribution and development on impact issues for community
• Partners in the Fryeburg Regional Educational Network (FREN)
• Develop and host community discussions, business socials and community/business interactions
• Spearheaded efforts to revitalize Main Street
• Advertise and promote Fryeburg wherever appropriate and beneficial
• Public Relations, marketing, and communications development with business to business, business to community, and community to general public and beyond
• Host member meetings, and organize public business meetings and educational forums with informative guest speakers
• Published “The Fryeburg Then and Now Book” which was created by President, Donna Woodward.  This book was a representation of Fryeburg past and present with photos, stories, historical highlights, and business directory. All proceeds from the sale of this book was donated to the FBA.
 
Involvement with Community:
• Business sponsorships and assistance for Dinner Bell North
• Co-sponsor of the “Bike Helmet Safety Program” with Fryeburg Police
• Fundraise for The Community Giving Tree 
• Event Coordinator and Presenter of the summer Concerts in the Park 
• Hoisting/retrieval/ replacement  of Town Flags:  Memorial Day to July 4th
• Event  Planners and Presenters of Fryeburg’s 250th Year-long Birthday Celebration  2013
• Lead the effort with Fryeburg Academy for a Business To Student internship / mentoring program 
• Sponsor of the Valley Pride Day Litter Clean-up Program
  And much more ……
 
 
Please join us and see what we can accomplish together!