The management team of a Portland company that makes products from recycled sails has been named Maine’s Small Business Person of the Year by the Small Business Administration.

Sea Bags CEO Don Oakes and President and COO Beth Shissler were named Friday by the federal agency that assists small businesses.

The annual award recognizes outstanding small business owners throughout the state. The pair was nominated by Nancy Strojny, chair of the local chapter of SCORE in Portland, because of Sea Bag’s growth and contributions to the community.

“Both Don and Beth have a deep commitment to creating sustainable economic impact in Maine,” said Strojny, in a release announcing the award. “From local manufacturing to repurposing discarded sails, they represent the best of vision, innovation and achievement.”

The company has grown to more than 100 employees and operates 13 retail stores.

Oakes and Shissler will also be considered for the National Small Business Person of the Year Award, which will be announced at SBA’s National Small Business Week celebration, April 29-30.

The SBA’s Maine District Office will recognize Oakes and Shissler at a local reception and awards presentation at the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport on May 1.

This story was updated at 2 p.m. Monday, April 2, to correct the location of the awards ceremony.


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