Welcome to the October 2025 edition of “A Month @ MOB,” a roundup of news and events in Maine’s outdoor industry each month:
Strong Sixteen County Response to Maine Trails Program Grant Opportunity
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) has received 105 applications for the first round of the newly established Maine Trails Program (MTP) grant cycle, reflecting the trail community’s commitment to outdoor recreation.
EPA Partners with Rural Communities to Strengthen Outdoor Recreation Economy, Make America Beautiful Again
Two Maine communities (Dover-Foxcroft and Jay, Livermore, and Livermore Falls) were awarded support through the EPA’s Recreation Economies for Rural Communities program, helping them address climate and redevelopment challenges, enhance recreation access, and grow local outdoor opportunities.
Registration Now Open for the 2026 Maine Outdoor Economy Summit
MOB and the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation have opened registration for the 2026 Maine Outdoor Economy Summit! Save your seat at the early bird rate by October 31. MOB Member? Reach out to brian@maineoutdoorbrands.com for a member discount code.
Katie Wise of L.L. Bean and Emily Yearwood of Northern Outdoors Named 40 Under 40 by MaineBiz
Congratulations to two MOB members recognized for their impact, leadership, and dedication to advancing Maine’s outdoor industry.
Maine Expands Outdoor Education with “Outdoor School for All”
The new statewide program led by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and partners like The Ecology School and Chewonki are making three-day outdoor education trips accessible to thousands of Maine students.
MOB Taps Student Input on Workforce with new Student Advisory Board
Student advisers represent their schools and communities while giving input on initiatives that support education, workforce development and broader engagement with young people. The goal is to not only provide students with a voice in shaping the future of Maine’s outdoor industry, but also to give them valuable opportunities to learn, connect and grow within this thriving sector.
York County Boatbuilding School Launches Workforce Development Program
The Landing School of Boatbuilding and Design launched a workforce pipeline partners program that aims to connect students and alumni with the marine trades industry.
Golden Hour Gear Repair, a New Spot for Repairs and Customizations
After her winning business pitch in the Big Gig event this spring, Island local Isabella Connelly has opened her business, Golden Hour Gear Repair, in Southwest Harbor.
How Kindling Collective Busts Down Barriers to the Outdoors
Queer-centered gear lending. Inclusive trips. Justice-driven outdoor education. Kindling Collective is removing barriers so everyone can feel at home in Maine’s wild places.
One of Maine’s Oldest Homesteads is Becoming the State’s Newest MTB Trail System
Thanks to the Loon Echo Land Trust and the passage of the trails bond, the land is now permanently protected for public use — and mountain biking is front and center in the master plan.