ROCKPORT — After months of planning and collaboration, the Penobscot Bay Community Collaboration — a partnership between Rock Coast Entrepreneurs, Camden Area Business Group (CABG), and Rockland Main Street, Inc., will hold the 1st Annual Penbay Showcase & Job Fair, Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 2 - 7 p.m., at the Samoset Resort.

"This event marks the return of a beloved regional business expo, which was a community staple before the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce closed in 2024," said Chris Austin, in a news release. "Recognizing the significant gap left behind, these three organizations joined forces in December 2024 to form the Penobscot Bay Community Collaboration, ensuring the event's continuation."

The Penbay Showcase & Job Fair is organized by Chris Austin, Rock Coast Entrepreneurs; Erick Anderson, Camden Area Business Group (CABG); and Karen Littlefield & Brandy Perkins, Rockland Main Street, Inc.

New for 2025: This year, the event is expanding to include a much-needed job fair, according to Austin, providing a direct connection between job seekers and employers across Midcoast Maine.

"The Penobscot Bay Community Collaboration is not a replacement for the Chamber of Commerce or an official organization, but rather a community-driven initiative designed to sustain vital regional events," said Austin. "The planning team is actively working to expand partnerships, recruit volunteers, and coordinate with the Maine Department of Labor to make the job fair as impactful as possible."

While keeping the spirit of past expos alive, several key improvements, this year’s Penbay Showcase & Job Fair will also include:

-Open to All Businesses and Organizations – No Chamber membership required
-Job Fair Component – Direct employer-to-job seeker connections.
-Nonprofit Discounts – Reduced rates to encourage participation.
-Flexible Booth Options – Businesses can purchase a second booth for additional space.
-Simplified Event Layout – Designed for better accessibility & visibility.
-Convenient Timing – Scheduled during April school vacation week to allow families and students to attend.

A Facebook event page and local advertising campaign went live the week of March 10, with full details on:

-Booth Registration and Selection
-Sponsorship Opportunities
-Job Fair Employer Sign-ups

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or general event questions, contact: penbayshowcase@gmail.com