New England Iron Pollo is a local food startup that focuses on cast iron broiled chicken, combining traditional cooking methods with Maine’s agricultural heritage. The small startup has been growing steadily and recently gained media attention with a live television appearance.

Photos from New England Iron Pollo on Instagram. Q&A as told by New England Iron Pollo’s owner Alberto Mateo in his own words.

Describe your business in one sentence.

New England Iron Pollo is a local food startup that focuses on cast iron broiled chicken while promoting Maine’s economic development and its rich history as the “former chicken capital of the world.”

How does your business represent you and your lived experience?

My business not only represents my 16 years in the industry and my passion for quality foods, but it represents flavors from my family’s heritage.

What unique perspective/skills do you bring to your business?

A unique perspective I would say is our secret marinade and cast iron cooking! I have learned many skills in college and after graduating in different professional organizations I worked before becoming an entrepreneur, but the reality is that you must put in the long hours of work and never give up.

What has been the greatest challenge you’ve faced in starting or running your business? How did you overcome that challenge?

Biggest challenge has been staffing, sufficient working capital, and the financial part of the business such as taxes, bookkeeping and so on. It is still a challenge, but learning and contacting professionals in the area has helped me a great deal.

What has been your greatest business triumph so far?

Our greatest triumph so far is running a profitable startup going into our 3rd year and being interviewed live on WABI TV last week!

Where do you see your business in 3-5 years?

In the next couple of years I see me having various brick and mortar locations throughout Maine and New England and eventually nationwide. I genuinely believe we have a great product that represents Maine.

What advice would you give to aspiring business owners?

I would advise aspiring business owners to contact professionals like CEI and Maine SBDC.

Are you taking any steps to reduce your business’s carbon footprint and/or make your business environmentally sustainable or climate-resilient?

Our startup is actually 90% eco-friendly! Our plates, napkins, trays are all made from sugarcane material and we use compostable utensils.

How did CEI become a part of your journey?

CEI became part of my business journey from the very beginning when I attended a course called “How to Start a Business In Maine” led by CEI advisor Grace Mo-Phillips. My business would have probably never been possible without the continued support from Grace, CEI and Chris Cole from Maine SBDC.