Shore to Shore: Eastern Shore entrepreneur center turns ‘what if’ into ‘what’s next’

SALISBURY, Md. — Eastern Shore entrepreneurs are turning “what if” into “what’s next” in the newest edition of Shore to Shore.

Assistant Director Bryan Bourdeau said, “The story of the Rommel Center was really founded on a simple realization: the Eastern Shore needed a dynamic hub to offer resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, whether that’s mentorship, support, networking, financing, or anything else to help launch businesses.”

The center transforms dreamers’ bold ideas into thriving businesses. Companies like Gillis Gilkerson helped invest in the creation of the center, and Dave and Patsy Rommel, self-made entrepreneurs with businesses including Rommel Harley-Davidson, Ace Hardware, and a construction company, wanted to pass on the gift of entrepreneurship.

The center is open to Salisbury University students and the public, offering access to its 6,000-square-foot facility.

“We have 12 private office spaces here in the center. We have eight garage spaces for studio work. We also have in-house graphic designers and a makerspace geared toward prototyping,” Bourdeau said.

With all of these resources, Bourdeau emphasized that it’s a community effort.

“We empathize; we sympathize. We’ve taken the journey with these entrepreneurs. All of us have had successes, failures, etc., but we’ve come through and either sold out businesses or exited them successfully,” Bourdeau said.

Bourdeau’s own entrepreneurial journey started in the music scene, with cassettes in the Cayman Islands, and led to a “light bulb” moment.

“Now, I can sing a full instrumental for the same price, all digital. I can customize it to fit a rock format, top 40 format, or country stations—all while offering localized support for a fraction of the cost. That was my entree into entrepreneurship,” he said.

Today, Bourdeau’s focus is on helping the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“We’re building community within community. When you’re around like-minded people, it helps you stay enthusiastic and motivated to overcome struggles and move forward,” Bourdeau said.

For those having a “what if” moment, Bourdeau encourages them to take the leap and make it “what’s next.”

“What’s stopping you from coming in and having a conversation? Pursue something that has the power to change your life—and potentially others’ lives,” Bourdeau said.

If you have any local business recommendations for Shore to Shore, email me at haley_rae@wmdt.com.