We are the accelerator for visionary founders who disrupt the status quo in Maine.

Our startups excel with the guidance of some of the most respected mentors and advisors in business, academia, and venture capital.

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Dirigo Labs is actively supporting entrepreneurs in their startup journeys.

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Featured Founders

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June 4th

Bio-Materials Startup Latis Materials Wins $20,000 Top Prize at Central Maine Growth Council’s Dirigo Labs Accelerator Pitch Competition
Press
May 21st

Dirigo Labs to Host Fifth Annual Pitch Competition on May 28 in Waterville
Press
March 10th

Dirigo Labs Announced 2026 Accelerator Cohort

Dirigo Labs is:

An accelerator

Join a cohort of fellow founders to participate in a 10-12 week curriculum of meaningful content with topics targeted to the needs of your startup, including customer discovery methodologies, revenue models, sales, employment law, fundraising, and pitch refinement.

A mentor collaborative

Our diverse pool of mentors are the backbone of the accelerator and a bring wide range of talent with a willingness to share their experience. Many are serial entrepreneurs themselves or industry experts based locally or across the country.

A funding catalyst

Gain access to investment capital, deal flow, and grant opportunities through Dirigo Labs’ robust network of angel and venture capital firms. We cultivate relationships with funders who are specifically interested in Maine-based businesses, so you stand out among a crowded pitch field.

A talent pipeline

Find the partners, colleagues, and professional collaborators to strengthen your team, add capacity, and scale your startup. Dirigo Labs’ academic partners will empower you to realize growth through R&D initiatives, talent development programs, and strategic partnerships.

Featured mentors:

MENTOR-PIC
Sharon Reishus

Former PUC Chair

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Jonathan Godbout

Co-Founder of Prospector and 2026 Speaker of the Year

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Ralph Nodine

Chair Emeritus of Maine Angels and 2026 Dirigo Labs Mentor of the Year

We connect entrepreneurs with resources to launch well and thrive.

1

Innovation Hub

Immerse your startup in Dirigo Labs’ center of entrepreneurship in downtown Waterville, where our startup accelerator, coworking space, and entrepreneur residency program converge along the Kennebec River.

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2

Entrepreneurial Community

Bond with fellow startup founders, connect with seasoned entrepreneurs who’ve been in your shoes, and network with investors who want to support your growth.

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3

Innovation Ecosystem

Capitalize on wrap-around partnerships for your startup’s long-term growth and sustainability, whether it be R&D initiatives to develop new IP or site location services to find the perfect new headquarters.

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Applications are now open for the Fall 2026 Dirigo Launch Incubator cohort!Apply Now