Maine entrepreneurs, students benefitting from UMaine business and law clinic

May 31, 2026 - 07:30

A unique partnership at the University of Maine is bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world business challenges. The UMaine Business and Law Clinic is providing students with hands-on experience while giving local entrepreneurs the legal and strategic support they need to grow. For students like Zaid Shaikh, the clinic is more than just a class. It is a chance to work directly with business owners, draft contracts, and navigate the complexities of intellectual property law. "You learn things you just cannot get from a textbook," Shaikh said. "Every client has a different problem, and you have to think on your feet."

On the other side of the table, entrepreneurs like Lisa Liberatore are reaping the benefits. Liberatore, who runs a small specialty food business, turned to the clinic for help with trademark registration and liability issues. Without the clinic, she said, the cost of hiring a private attorney would have been a major obstacle. Instead, she received thorough, professional guidance from supervised students eager to prove their skills.

The clinic operates under the supervision of licensed attorneys and faculty members, ensuring that the work meets professional standards. For the students, it builds confidence and a professional network before graduation. For the business owners, it offers affordable access to critical services. As the program grows, both sides agree that the arrangement creates a cycle of learning and economic development that benefits the entire state.