Startup Maine Kickoff Event – The Roux Institute’s Founder Residency Venture Showcase (separate RSVP required)
The Roux Institute at Northeastern University 100 Fore Street, PortlandWeek of Events
SBA Export Day (programming not officially part of Startup Maine Week)
SBA Export Day (programming not officially part of Startup Maine Week)
If you're interested in attending, RSVP here: https://SBAExportDay2025.eventbrite.com Location: Maine Center for Professional and Graduate Studies, 300 Fore St. Portland ME Where in the world do I even start??!! Are […]
Startup Maine Kickoff Event – The Roux Institute’s Founder Residency Venture Showcase (separate RSVP required)
Startup Maine Kickoff Event – The Roux Institute’s Founder Residency Venture Showcase (separate RSVP required)
Kick off Startup Maine Week with The Roux Institute's Founder Residency Venture Showcase—a celebration of innovation, diversity, and Maine’s growing startup ecosystem. Note: you must RSVP here (for headcount and […]
Nexus Maine Coffee Meetup
Nexus Maine Coffee Meetup
Grab a coffee and join us for a casual meetup of unstructured networking with your fellow entrepreneurially-minded Mainers. Sponsored by Bernstein Shur law firm.
Founder Startup Journeys in Maine (Opening Plenary Session at the Maine Center)
Founder Startup Journeys in Maine (Opening Plenary Session at the Maine Center)
Behind The Hustle: Hard Truths, Big Wins & Bold Predictions In this session we'll go beyond the usual startup success stories and hear what it really takes to build a […]
The Art of the Pitch – Using Storytelling to Engage and Inspire Audiences
The Art of the Pitch – Using Storytelling to Engage and Inspire Audiences
In this workshop, we’ll focus on: • Being a human leader - the importance of coming from a place of why and articulating passions and aspirations • Engaging and inspiring […]
Finding Co-Founders and Early Employees
Finding Co-Founders and Early Employees
Join seasoned entrepreneurs who've experienced the highs, lows, and lessons learned from finding co-founders and hiring early employees. Hear authentic stories, practical insights, and candid advice on assembling a team […]
National Security Innovation (RSVP Required)
National Security Innovation (RSVP Required)
What is Maine's role in the future of National Security Innovation? Find out during Startup Maine Week as Lauren Bedula (Beacon Global Strategies) leads a powerhouse discussion with Jeremy Hitchcock, […]
Scratchpad Accelerator’s Celebration of Entrepreneurship + Lunch
Scratchpad Accelerator’s Celebration of Entrepreneurship + Lunch
Join us in celebrating the 2025 Scratchpad Accelerator cohort, featuring Nauti Sisters Sea Farm, P3RD Earth, Singing Pastures, and Watermelon Pie—a dynamic group of entrepreneurs pushing the boundaries of innovation […]
Integrating AI into Your SaaS Offering: A Blueprint for Success
Integrating AI into Your SaaS Offering: A Blueprint for Success
AI is no longer just hype — it’s a must-have for scaling and staying competitive. But integrating AI into your SaaS offering isn’t just about adding new features. It requires the right strategy, data, and execution to drive real value. Join Mike Veilleux, CTO, and Joe Small, data science engineer, of York IE for an […]
Maine’s Rural Renaissance: Leveraging Rural Investment Opportunities
Maine’s Rural Renaissance: Leveraging Rural Investment Opportunities
Discover rural Maine's untapped potential! Experts unlock funding avenues: From CDFI opportunities, Federal & State grants, venture capital, and low-interest loans that fuel regional growth. Be inspired by success stories […]
Internationalize your Startup – Tools to Help You Go Global
Internationalize your Startup – Tools to Help You Go Global
If you are looking at exploring international markets, you don't have to go it alone. Whether you want to export or set up a subsidiary, there is a wide range […]
Preparing for an Exit: Insights from Experience
Preparing for an Exit: Insights from Experience
We'll delve into questions around when and how to exit a startup company, the different considerations for investors and CEOs, and hear about lessons learned the hard way. Panelists: Nilanjana […]
Reception – Oysters, Bites, and Drinks
Reception – Oysters, Bites, and Drinks
Presented by Atlantic Aqua Farms and the Consulate General of Canada. Mix and mingle with conference attendees, meet the staff from the Consul General of Canada in Boston, and enjoy […]
BattleDecks + Pizza Party (Low-key evening event)
BattleDecks + Pizza Party (Low-key evening event)
Unwind after the day with some fun, laughs, and food. What is BattleDecks? Think: Powerpoint Karaoke. Enter your name for a chance to present (or should we say....perform?). Participants are […]
Women Connect- A Nexus Maine community (coffee networking meetup)
Women Connect- A Nexus Maine community (coffee networking meetup)
Kick off your morning with coffee + conversation. Join us for a casual meetup with other women. Small group convos on topics you care about: leadership, burnout, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and […]
The First $1M: Navigating Early Stage Fundraising in Maine
The First $1M: Navigating Early Stage Fundraising in Maine
Join us for a panel on navigating early stage fundraising in Maine, including panelists from Maine Technology Institute, Coastal Ventures, Maine Angels, Maine Venture Fund, and Ocean House Consulting. Speakers: Tom Kittredge, Senior Investment Officer, Maine Technology Institute Blaine Grimes, President, Ocean House Consulting Kevin McDonough, Investor, Maine Angels Nina Scheepers, Principal, Maine Venture Fund […]
Responsible AI: Balancing Innovation and Accountability
Responsible AI: Balancing Innovation and Accountability
As AI-powered products and services become more prevalent, startups face critical decisions about how to build and deploy AI responsibly. While the AI landscape at times may feel like the “wild west,” we will ask whether a responsible approach can be a differentiator or an inhibitor. This panel brings together startup founders, a researcher specializing […]
Financial Modeling Made Easy 3.0
Financial Modeling Made Easy 3.0
This two-part workshop demystifies financial modeling for founders, operators, and early-stage teams. Part one lays the foundation with essential theory—what investors really want to see, common modeling traps, and how to structure a model that tells a clear, data-backed story. Part two is an interactive session that walks participants through real-world scenarios and modeling pitfalls, […]
What Does It Mean to Take a Startup Job?
What Does It Mean to Take a Startup Job?
What to consider when transitioning from a corporate job to a startup company, understanding equity allocation, and how to articulate skills transfer. Hear from local talent that took the leap from corporate to startup, what surprised them, and what they wish they had known. Come with questions or just to learn!
Maine Angels & FAME: Invite-Only Lunch for Accredited Investors (Please fill out form to receive official invitation)
Maine Angels & FAME: Invite-Only Lunch for Accredited Investors (Please fill out form to receive official invitation)
Join the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) and the Maine Angels for a invite-only lunch event at Startup Maine Week for accredited investors. Please fill out this form to receive an official invitation. Date: May 21st, 12-1pm Event Address: Location forthcoming
Maine Angels & FAME: The Synergy of Startup Investing
Maine Angels & FAME: The Synergy of Startup Investing
Note: Separate RSVP required to request invitation to Accredited Investor Lunch from 12-1:00 pm. Please fill out this form. Join the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) and the Maine Angels for a dynamic conversation. Discover how to invest in Maine’s entrepreneurs, hear compelling testimonials, and learn how your investment can help spark a bright economic […]
Preparing to Raise: Diligence and Cap Table Best Practices to Help You Close Fast
Preparing to Raise: Diligence and Cap Table Best Practices to Help You Close Fast
So, you’re preparing to raise money to grow your startup. How sure are you that your data room and cap table are clean and organized? This priority should be top of mind because a messy data room could drag out your raise and might cost you tens of thousands in legal expenses. This session will […]
Crypto Rails for Real Businesses: A No-Hype Playbook for Gaining an Edge
Crypto Rails for Real Businesses: A No-Hype Playbook for Gaining an Edge
Examine blockchain's potential to upgrade traditional business structures—from real estate and investment funds to customer loyalty and payroll. This panel explores blockchain innovations impacting tomorrow's businesses. Led by: Jimmy Haight - Head of Community at Chainlink Labs & Burak Sezen - Founder and Partner at The 6ixth Event
Data Engineering as a Tool for Everyone
Data Engineering as a Tool for Everyone
Got data? You probably need data engineering! This talk, presented by Torie DeLisle of Aras Digital Products, gives a no-fear overview of what data engineering really is and how you can use it to solve everyday business problems. Learn how to recognize data opportunities, how you can start thinking about your data differently, and where […]
Putting our Bets on ClimateTech – Maine Resources and Programs
Putting our Bets on ClimateTech – Maine Resources and Programs
Is Maine the new Silicon Valley for Climate and Clean Tech startups? We hope so, and that’s what the Boston Globe article, Lobster, Moose, and ... Climate Tech? Maine is Branching Out, teased last fall! If you’re interested in new technical solutions to climate change, join us to learn some of the ways Maine is […]
Founders & Funders Happy Hour w/ Fidelity Private Shares
Founders & Funders Happy Hour w/ Fidelity Private Shares
RSVP here. This event will bring together some of the top founders and investors involved with Startup Maine Week in Portland. Feel free to bring a founder/investor friend if know someone else who might be interested in joining us!
Maine Technology Institute (MTI) Portfolio Showcase + Reception
Maine Technology Institute (MTI) Portfolio Showcase + Reception
Maine Technology Institute is showcasing its diverse community of portfolio businesses and partners at this special event. As part of the Startup Maine celebration, 15 innovative businesses from across MTI’s seven technology sectors will display their innovative products and ideas. This gathering will provide a unique opportunity for networking, knowledge-sharing, and highlighting the achievements of […]
Out of Office: A Morning Meetup for Remote Workers
Out of Office: A Morning Meetup for Remote Workers
Hosted by Punch Club @ Bom Dia Café, 47 India St, Portland, ME 04101 Thursday, May 22 | 8:00 – 9:00 AM Sick of RTO memos, surprise layoffs (thanks ChatGPT), and Slack messages that feel like breakup texts? Meet other WFH folks and talk about what it’s like to work outside the corporate bubble — […]
Selling to the Government, Anchor Institutions, and Global Markets
Selling to the Government, Anchor Institutions, and Global Markets
Session Overview: You Aren’t Too Small to Compete! Expanding your customer base beyond traditional markets can unlock new revenue opportunities and long-term stability for your business. This panel discussion will provide small business owners with essential insights into selling to government agencies, large institutions, and international markets. Panel Moderators: Brad Currie, Senior Area Manager, SBA […]
From Pain Points to Platforms: How Founders Are Scaling Healthcare Solutions
From Pain Points to Platforms: How Founders Are Scaling Healthcare Solutions
This candid session explores the unique obstacles faced when disrupting traditional healthcare systems and the strategies that led to successful platform development. Speakers will discuss identifying critical pain points, navigating regulatory complexities, securing funding in the healthcare space, and building technology that truly improves patient outcomes while achieving sustainable growth. Perfect for aspiring healthtech entrepreneurs, […]
Maine Accelerates Growth (MxG) Session
Maine Accelerates Growth (MxG) Session
Maine Accelerates Growth (MxG) is a monthly convening of entrepreneurial support organizations, economic development agencies, funders, startup founders, investors, and service providers. We share updates from across Maine's innovation economy, celebrate successes, and highlight emerging startups. Come join for our first in-person meeting of 2025!
Prerequisites for Success in Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA)
Prerequisites for Success in Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA)
Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) offers a compelling path to small business ownership and is a perfect fit for ambitious Mainers. Three Maine-based entrepreneurs who each acquired small businesses will share the foundational skills, resources, and mindset that helped them succeed and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you're actively searching for a business to […]
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Partner Showcase
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Partner Showcase
Grab lunch at a local spot and come on by the Roux Institute to meet many of the organizations that support entrepreneurs. Learn about their programs and offerings, capital resources, and how you can take advantage! Featured organizations include: Atlas Maine Maine Angels Maine Community Bank's Launchpad Maine Funding Network (Finance Authority of Maine) Maine […]
From Policy to Impact: Lessons in Supporting Entrepreneurs & Driving Investment
From Policy to Impact: Lessons in Supporting Entrepreneurs & Driving Investment
Tim Agnew and Rhiannon Hampson bring deep expertise in Maine’s economic development tools, having spent their careers building and engaging with these initiatives. After successful tenures in other sectors, both are now focused on accelerating the growth of Maine’s blue economy. This discussion will reflect on the successes and challenges of key state-driven initiatives designed […]
Cooking with AI: Build a Company in 60 Minutes
Cooking with AI: Build a Company in 60 Minutes
Learn to Cook with AI and transform your raw business ingredients into a market-ready venture. We'll whip up complete business frameworks, bake your brand assets to perfection, and serve a delicious launch strategy—all in just 60 minutes. Watch as founders like you turn up the heat on entrepreneurship and cook up success in real-time. Led […]
Unfiltered Journeys: Founders on Overcoming Hidden Challenges
Final Session – Looking Forward and Shaping our Startup Ecosystem (Brainstorm and Reflection)
Final Session – Looking Forward and Shaping our Startup Ecosystem (Brainstorm and Reflection)
At the end of the week, before we head to the wrap party to celebrate - we want real time feedback on the week - plus help us think big for the future. Not just for the conference but what else we could dream up for Maine to make our startup ecosystem be even better? […]
Closing Party at Porthole (and Casablanca Boat Cruise – separate RSVP)
Closing Party at Porthole (and Casablanca Boat Cruise – separate RSVP)
Join us for a celebratory happy hour at the Porthole and then a Casco Bay Cruise aboard the Casablanca. Note: you'll need to reserve your spot on the boat. SECURE YOUR SPOT HERE