The Maine Business School and University of Maine Cooperative Extension have joined forces to create Finances in a Flash, an innovative online training designed to enhance financial literacy among Maine’s professionals, entrepreneurs and small business owners.

This interactive, self-paced course offers a comprehensive overview of essential financial management topics, including budgeting, cash flow analysis, emergency fund planning and understanding key financial statements. In just under two hours, participants can acquire practical skills to make informed financial decisions and strengthen their business acumen.

Finances in a Flash is available online, making it a convenient option for individuals seeking to improve their financial knowledge. The course is particularly beneficial for:

• Small business owners aiming to solidify their financial foundations

• Beginning agricultural producers 

• Aspiring entrepreneurs preparing to launch new ventures

• Freelancers and gig economy workers managing variable incomes

• Professionals seeking to enhance their financial literacy

• Students and recent graduates entering the workforce

Upon successful completion, participants earn the Finances in a Flash micro-badge—a digital credential that signifies proficiency in the basics of financial literacy and business finance. This badge can be showcased on professional platforms such as LinkedIn or included in resumes to demonstrate a commitment to financial competence and continuous learning.

Micro-badges serve as concise, verifiable representations of specific skills and knowledge areas. They offer a flexible approach to professional development, allowing individuals to build and stack credentials that align with their career goals. The Finances in a Flash micro-badge highlights an individual's capability to manage financial aspects effectively, a skill highly valued across various industries.

Finances in a Flash is part of the University of Maine System’s broader initiative to provide accessible, skill-based learning opportunities that meet the evolving needs of Maine’s workforce. The course is delivered through the Brightspace platform, ensuring a user-friendly experience that accommodates diverse learning styles and schedules. Cost of the training is $24.99 and registration is available on the course webpage. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact Laura Wilson at laura.wilson@maine.edu.

The University of Maine System's (UMS) Micro-Credential Initiative supports the development and implementation of micro-credentials across the system’s seven universities and school of law. UMS micro-credentials are made up of digital badges that highlight the earner’s competencies in skills needed for today’s workforce. They are offered to UMS students, youth, and as professional development opportunities for individuals in the workforce to advance or increase their employability. Micro-credentials earned through UMS are verified, evidence-based, and shareable. For further information about the UMS Micro-Credential Initiative, visit the website or email ums.mc@maine.edu. A full catalog of all UMS Micro-Credentials is found on the badging platform.

About University of Maine Cooperative Extension:  As a trusted resource for over 100 years, Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and grow the food-based economy, focusing on aspects from production and processing to nutrition, food safety and food security. Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H which offers hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement and creates a positive environment where participants are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.