NOMINATED BY MORGAN LAIDLAW, BANGOR SAVINGS BANK
For many business owners, their mission isn’t just about building a successful business, it’s about providing opportunities for gainful employment for people in their community. As someone who grew up in a single parent household without the same kind of advantages as many of the other kids in school, Isaac M. Young was determined to be successful and help the next generation find more opportunities than he had. Graduating in 2017 from the University of Maine at Fort Kent, Isaac graduated college debt free using summer earnings and local scholarships. With a degree in Public Safety Administration, Isaac began looking into law enforcement jobs while working in the landscaping field. During his summer of landscaping work, he discovered his true passion for business.
In its first few years, the business was based out of Isaac’s home, but this was a temporary situation as the business was poised for extensive growth, with services ranging from general landscaping to excavation and stone work. By the time IMY Landscaping received its Paycheck Protection Program loan in 2020, the business had 5 employees and over $200,000 in revenue, with further growth in its near future. By building a reputation for quality work and expanding its offerings, IMY Landscaping has now grown beyond a home-based business, purchasing its first commercial space in 2024 to accommodate the 22 employees and the equipment needed for the variety of jobs the business takes on.
As he plans for even more growth and success, Isaac has taken on a leading role in Camden Hills Regional High School’s youth mentorship program. Through this program, at-risk students can learn skills and trades at businesses like IMY Landscaping, and receive support and education outside of traditional curriculums. Despite this program being in its early stages, the program dedicates over 100 hours of hands-on work and mentoring to students through businesses every semester. Upon completion of the program, students who work with IMY are offered a job once they graduate from high school. By building this partnership, Isaac is able to support students, inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, and grow his workforce.
For achieving so much growth and giving back so much to youth in his community, all before reaching the age of 30 himself, Isaac M. Young has demonstrated the best of Maine’s small businesses, and the SBA is pleased to name him the 2025 Young Entrepreneur of the Year for New England and Maine.
