Waterville, Skowhegan 4/25/2024 – Five prominent organizations in central Maine —Dirigo Labs, Main Street Skowhegan, Colby College, Thomas College, and Kennebec Valley Community College—are proud to announce a collaborative effort aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs and cultivating innovation throughout the region. Together, they are hosting a series of pitch contests designed to provide founders with a platform to showcase their ideas and receive valuable feedback and support.
The series of pitch contests will kick off with Colby College’s event, “The Halloran Lab $40K Venture Showcase,” scheduled for Thursday, May 2nd, from 1:00-3:30PM, at the Ostrove Auditorium, Diamond Building. This event is open to the public for in-person attendance, and will be streamed live for those who can’t make it to campus. It promises to be an exciting opportunity for innovators and entrepreneurs to take center stage to compete for a $25,000 first place grant and $40,000 in overall funding. Registration for this event can be found at https://tinyurl.com/37648h4m.
“We’re thrilled to offer hardworking and visionary students a stage, exposure, feedback, and funding to propel their ideas to new heights,” said Jeremy Barron, director of the Halloran Lab for Entrepreneurship. “We’re proud of the work they’ve accomplished in just a few months and eager to share their progress with the rest of campus and the entrepreneurial ecosystem at large.”
Following Colby’s showcase, the “Top Gun Regional Pitch” for Waterville will take place on May 8th at 6 p.m. at Thomas College, providing another avenue for local innovators to pitch their ideas and connect with potential investors and mentors. Registration for this event can be found at https://tinyurl.com/22ewxvpe.
Dirigo Labs will host its own pitch competition on May 22, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at Greene Block + Studios, featuring 12 startups with innovations in cleantech, medTech, AI, and manufacturing, all eyeing a $25,000 cash prize generously made possible by Skowhegan Savings Bank. Registration for this free event can be found at https://tinyurl.com/5n8kjwdw.
“We’re setting the stage for Maine’s most creative minds to shine,” said Susan Ruhlin, managing director of Dirigo Labs. “It’s not just about winning; it’s about celebrating entrepreneurship, fostering ideation, and showing off our incredible founders.”
On May 29th at 6 p.m. Kennebec Valley Community College will host its Entrepreneurship Pitch Night at King Hall, providing a platform for local Maine businesses to fine-tune their pitch and showcase months of work on their business ideas. More information on this event can be found at https://tinyurl.com/m2w3y4zm.
“We are excited to showcase the local entrepreneurs advancing through our new program,” said Joe Musumeci, KVCC’s director of workforce training and professional development. “Our training was designed to support unemployed and underemployed workers in Maine who have the entrepreneurial spirit but hit some barriers starting a business. Working with the other entrepreneurship programs in Central Maine and across the state has been incredibly beneficial and helped us fit our program in to offer the most support and accessibility.”
The series will culminate with Main Street Skowhegan’s Business Lab Pitch Contest and Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge on June 5th at 5PM, located at 185 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME 04976. This event will showcase the creativity and ambition of aspiring and young entrepreneurs while offering valuable support and guidance to help them succeed. Registration can be found at https://tinyurl.com/yc847py3.
“Working with both aspiring and established entrepreneurs dedicated to enhancing Central Maine’s vibrancy is always a remarkable experience. We are fortunate to have innovative, talented, and hardworking individuals in our community”, said Patric Moore, director of entrepreneurship at Main Street Skowhegan. “This year is particularly special as we’ve partnered with Skowhegan High School to pilot the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, giving students a platform to present their business ideas and inspire us all.”
Through these collaborative efforts, Dirigo Labs, Main Street Skowhegan, Colby College, Thomas College, and Kennebec Valley Community College are committed to building a region that is supportive of business and innovation. By providing entrepreneurs and founders with access to resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities, they aim to foster a thriving ecosystem of innovation that drives economic growth and prosperity in Central Maine.
For more information about each event, please contact:
About Halloran Lab for Entrepreneurship: The Halloran Lab for Entrepreneurship offers entrepreneurship training and practical opportunities aimed at preparing Colby students to be effective innovators and entrepreneurs—whether they are creating dynamic new business ventures or improving existing organizations or programs. The lab provides funding for students to start commercial and social enterprises, mentorship, as well as innovation and maker spaces on campus and in downtown Waterville. The lab heads the development of an entrepreneurship ecosystem involving alumni, faculty, staff, and Colby community members as well as companies, organizations, and institutions.
About Harold Alfond Institute for Business Innovation at Thomas College: Named for Maine’s premiere entrepreneur and innovator, the Harold Alfond® Institute for Business Innovation has been established to spur economic vitality in Central Maine by nurturing the very talent that will assist in the creation of both jobs and wealth for the area.
About Dirigo Labs: Dirigo Labs is a regional startup accelerator based in Waterville, Maine. With a mission to grow mid-Maine’s digital economy by supporting entrepreneurs who are building innovation-based companies, the Dirigo Labs ecosystem brings together people, resources, and organizations to ensure the successful launch of new startups. Dirigo Labs operates under Central Maine Growth Council and is supported by several organizations, academic institutions, and investment firms. For more information, please visit www.dirigolabs.org.
About Main Street Skowhegan:Main Street Skowhegan is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on the ongoing revitalization of historic Skowhegan, Maine. Our mission is to celebrate Skowhegan’s rich heritage while achieving our brightest future as a thriving economic, cultural, and recreational community where residents enjoy a high quality of life.
About Kennebec Valley Community College:Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) is a 2-year comprehensive community college in mid-Maine serving students from Somerset, Kennebec, and Knox counties and well beyond. KVCC has two campuses in the heart of Central Maine – our 70-acre Fairfield Campus which is readily accessible by I-95 and our 600-acre Harold Alfond Campus just seven miles north. KVCCs Workforce Training and Professional Development office provides a wealth of short-term trainings that are targeted toward business and industry and professional development. KVCC is a collegial environment emphasizing student success and respect for a diverse population of employees, students, and community members.
Waterville, ME 4/23/2024 – Dirigo Labs is delighted to announce the appointment of two Executives-in-Residence (EiR). The cleantech executives, including Bob Martin, former president of Maine Technology Institute, and Jeff Marks of Climate Work Maine, were selected through a rigorous RFQ process.
“Being selected for this role is not only an honor but also a testament to the collective commitment to advancing cleantech innovation in Maine,” states Bob Martin. “I am excited to contribute to Dirigo Labs’ mission, fostering innovation, and supporting the growth of cleantech entrepreneurs, ultimately driving positive change in our state.”
This strategic move is a significant step forward in expanding the Dirigo Labs’ cleantech initiative, reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of cleantech entrepreneurs and startups in the state. This process is supported by a one-year contract from the Governor’s Energy Office through the Clean Energy Partnership, aimed at expanding the Dirigo Labs accelerator program. The appointed EiRs will play a pivotal role in advancing Dirigo Labs’ cleantech programming. Their responsibilities include providing strategic guidance and expert advice to cohort companies on critical areas such as business development, marketing, and fundraising.
“I’m excited about actively fostering impactful connections within the cleantech sector while imparting valuable industry knowledge and entrepreneurial best practices, equipping startups with the tools they need to succeed,” remarks Jeff Marks. “In an increasingly carbon-constrained and climate-conscious economy, Maine has potential to become a cleantech market leader; I look forward to cultivating collaborations that not only drive innovation but also pave the way for sustainable growth and success in Maine’s cleantech industry.”
In addition to their mentoring role, the Executives-in-Residence will actively facilitate meaningful connections between startups and key stakeholders in the cleantech sector. The EiRs will also contribute to the knowledge-sharing ecosystem by designing and delivering workshops and training sessions. These sessions will impart valuable industry knowledge and entrepreneurial best practices, equipping startups with the tools they need to succeed.
“This strategic move, supported by the Governor’s Energy Office through the Clean Energy Partnership program, marks a significant milestone in our commitment to nurturing innovation and empowering cleantech entrepreneurs,” adds Dirigo Labs Managing Director Susan Ruhlin. “These executives will bring invaluable expertise to our accelerator program, guiding startups in vital areas such as business development, marketing, and fundraising.”
About Dirigo Labs:As a public-private economic development partnership fostering a robust mid-Maine economy, CMGC is organizing the tech industry’s ability to transition the post-manufacturing economy through the Dirigo Labs initiative. Through this initiative, Dirigo Labs will galvanize mid-Maine’s unique diversity of academic institutions and tech firms to develop a startup accelerator that harnesses the entrepreneurship and digital skills of our students, graduates, academic faculty, and business owners to build a sustainable tech and innovation hub that powers a thriving rural economy.
New Position to Prioritize Tracking Impact and Outcomes of Accelerator Companies
Waterville, ME 4/2/2024 – Dirigo Labs is pleased to announce the addition of Mufaddal to its team as the Project Management Specialist. In this new role, Mufaddal will be instrumental in fortifying the accelerator program’s impact by overseeing outcome and impact metrics for cohort companies while providing invaluable insights into their developmental trajectories.
A 2021 graduate of Colby College, Mufaddal brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for entrepreneurship to Dirigo Labs. His previous experience as a data scientist for Lincoln Financial Group will inform Dirigo Labs’ tracking and measuring of key outcome metrics, assessing the impact of entrepreneurial activities, and identifying growth opportunities for the accelerator program. Mufaddal is also the co-founder of Pair Technologies, a Maine-based startup company that aims to make computing more accessible, comfortable and repairable, ensuring that technology is designed for human use and reuse – not for landfills.
“We are delighted to welcome Mufaddal to the Dirigo Labs team,” said Dirigo Labs Program Manager Emalee Hall. “Mufaddal’s role as a liaison with Colby College and the Halloran Lab for Entrepreneurship further strengthens our ties with our local resource and educational partners, ensuring a rich and collaborative entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
Funded in conjunction with Colby College as part of CMGC’s Dirigo Labs initiative, Mufaddal will actively engage with cohort companies to understand their unique needs, challenges, and growth aspirations. By fostering open communication and collaborative relationships, Mufaddal aims to tailor the accelerator program to address specific entrepreneurial objectives, ensuring a customized and impactful experience for each startup within the Dirigo Labs ecosystem.
“By harnessing the power of data-driven outcomes, I am excited to contribute to the success stories of aspiring startups, guiding them toward their full potential and fostering a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and growth,” states Mufaddal. “I am passionate about leveraging actionable insights to not only fuel the success stories of aspiring startups but also to empower them with strategic guidance, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth here in downtown Waterville.”
About Dirigo Labs: Dirigo Labs is a regional startup accelerator based in Waterville, Maine. With a mission to grow mid-Maine’s digital economy by supporting entrepreneurs who are building innovation-based companies, the Dirigo Labs ecosystem brings together people, resources, and organizations to ensure the successful launch of new startups. Dirigo Labs operates under Central Maine Growth Council and is supported by several organizations, academic institutions, and investment firms. For more information, please visit www.dirigolabs.org
Prize to be Awarded to Top Cohort Company on May 22 in Waterville
Waterville, ME 3/12/2024 – Dirigo Labs is delighted to announce the continued sponsorship of the pitch competition prize by Skowhegan Savings Bank for its third cohort of startups. The accelerator’s pitch competition is scheduled to take place at the Greene Block + Studios in downtown Waterville on Wednesday, May 22, from 5-8 pm.
“Skowhegan Savings is committed to supporting local businesses, aligning with our core values of making our communities better places to live and work,” said David Cyr, president and CEO of Skowhegan Savings. “This partnership with Dirigo Labs embodies our dedication to providing entrepreneurs with the essential tools for success and fostering innovation that contributes to the prosperity of those communities. Reflecting on the journey of 12 impressive applicants from last year, we look forward to seeing the positive contributions that this year’s cohort will bring to our state’s economy.”
The 16-week program, which commenced on February 2 and is based at the Hathaway Creative Center in Waterville, guides startups through a targeted curriculum while assisting founders in executing individual project plans. Each cohort company is matched with a curated board of local and national advisors. Workshop topics include financial modeling, leveraging public-private sector grants, customer acquisition strategies, capital planning, and intellectual property evaluation. Dirigo Labs’ third cohort features 12 startup companies spanning various industries such as healthtech, outdoor recreation, artificial intelligence, and clean energy technologies.
Dirigo Labs’ Managing Director Susan Ruhlin conveyed appreciation for the ongoing collaboration with Skowhegan Savings Bank, emphasizing the bank’s instrumental role in supporting startup companies within Dirigo Labs. Ruhlin expressed, “With the continued support from Skowhegan Savings Bank, we can provide crucial backing to Maine’s innovators. This partnership empowers us to facilitate the transformation of their ideas into reality, fostering economic growth and prosperity for our state’s burgeoning startup community.”
Judges for the pitch competition will evaluate startup presentations based on their communication, capital strategy, innovation, strength of the team, and potential economic and social impact in Maine. The May 22 event is the culmination of the 16-week program.
Dirigo Labs Program Manager Emalee Hall highlighted the critical role the pitch competition plays in determining the future direction of the startups involved. She noted, “Our startup showcase is a significant milestone for our participating founders, serving as a stage to unveil their achievements while participating in our cohort. This presents a thrilling chance for the innovators to demonstrate their development and their possible impact on Maine’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
For further information about Dirigo Labs, including details for startups and potential mentors, please visit www.dirigolabs.org.
About Skowhegan Savings:Skowhegan Savings Bank has been dedicated to strengthening Maine’s families, businesses, and communities by providing personalized and competitive banking services to the regions they serve for 150 years. An independent mutual savings bank based in Skowhegan, our mission is to provide customers with exceptional service in an innovative banking environment that effectively and efficiently puts the financial needs of the customer first. Skowhegan Savings takes pride in not only being a great place to bank but also a great place to work. For more information about Skowhegan Savings, please visit Skowhegan.com or contact our Customer Service line at 800.303.9511.
Cohort Kickoff Scheduled for February 29 at Bricks Coworking & Innovation Space
Waterville, ME 1/17/2024 – Dirigo Labs announced the 12 startups for its third cohort class. The accelerator program, hosted at the Hathaway Creative Center will offer a newly expanded curriculum with an emphasis on financial modeling.
“Being selected to participate in the cohort represents a significant milestone for SnoYak,” stated Oakland, ME-based Rob Thompson, founder of the innovative sit-ski product company. “It’s not just an opportunity for us to expand our business knowledge but also to collaborate with and learn from other entrepreneurs, industry experts, and mentors. I believe that the Dirigo Labs’ network will help us bring our vision of a more innovative future in outdoor recreation to life.”
Startup teams were carefully selected based on development stage, founder experience, potential to scale, and industry relevance. Participating founders are paired with a customized board of advisors drawn from Dirigo Labs’ extensive local and national mentor network. In addition to personalized mentorship, teams participate in topically relevant workshop sessions including state and municipal incentives, public-private sector grants, intellectual property, and capital strategy.
Susan Ruhlin, Managing Director of Dirigo Labs, highlighted the potential of the selected startups: “We are thrilled to welcome these 12 dynamic startups into our third cohort. Each team brings a unique vision and innovative spirit that epitomizes the entrepreneurial drive we foster at Dirigo Labs. These startups represent not just the future of their respective industries, but also the vibrant potential of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in our region.”
The 2024 Dirigo Labs Cohort Companies are:
Startups who are interested in learning more about Dirigo Labs can visit www.dirigolabs.org.
About Dirigo Labs:Dirigo Labs is a regional startup accelerator based in Waterville, Maine. With a mission to grow mid-Maine’s digital economy by supporting entrepreneurs building innovation-based companies, the Dirigo Labs ecosystem brings together people, resources, and organizations to ensure the successful launch of new startups. Dirigo Labs operates under Central Maine Growth Council and is supported by several organizations, academic institutions, and investment firms.
Waterville, ME 1/3/2024 – Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC) has been awarded a one-year contract valued at nearly $112,000 from the Governor’s Energy Office through the Clean Energy Partnership program to expand its Dirigo Labs accelerator program. The contract and additions to the Dirigo Labs program will prioritize companies that are engaging in sub sectors such as renewable energy, cleantech aerospace, environmental monitoring technologies, and innovation-enabling clean energy infrastructure.
“CMGC and Dirigo Labs are honored to receive this significant grant from the Governor’s Energy Office, propelling Dirigo Labs in downtown Waterville. Committed to local economic development, this funding supports startups and entrepreneurs driving Maine toward sustainability,” says CMGC Director of Planning, Innovation, & Economic Development Garvan Donegan. “Strategically partnering with existing ecosystem partners and other awardees, including Northeastern University’s Roux Institute and Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI), we aim not just to boost local businesses but also to position the region and Maine as a cleantech leader. Together, we’re fostering innovation, creating jobs, and securing a resilient economy for our state.”
Building upon Dirigo Labs’ existing national mentor network, the accelerator will additionally recruit ten (10) to fifteen (15) mentors with deep cleantech experience. Curriculum development will concentrate on unique challenges faced by cleantech entrepreneurs, such as applying for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants and cleantech funding sources, navigating energy regulations and policy frameworks, integrating sustainability best practices, and optimizing supply chain and manufacturing processes.
“This initiative underscores our unwavering dedication to empowering entrepreneurs in the cleantech sector with unparalleled support,” emphasized Dirigo Labs Managing Director Susan Ruhlin. “Leveraging our extensive national mentor network and enlisting mentors steeped in cleantech expertise, we are actively shaping a robust foundation for entrepreneurial success.”
“We are very pleased to award Central Maine Growth Council with this grant that will bring new support for cleantech innovation to Waterville,” said Dan Burgess, Director of the Governor’s Energy Office. “With funding through Governor Mills’ Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan, CMGC and Dirigo Labs’ accelerator program will contribute to Central Maine’s economic growth and the State’s goal of having 30,000 clean energy jobs by 2030.”
In addition to the creation of a cleantech curriculum, an entrepreneur-in-residence (EiR) will be chosen and contracted through a competitive Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process to assist the Dirigo Labs’ cleantech initiative, expanding influence in Maine’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and facilitating the recruitment of cleantech entrepreneurs and startups.
“Through a competitive RFQ process, we will identify and onboard an EiR who not only possesses a proven track record in cleantech entrepreneurship but also brings a wealth of experience and insights specific to our startups. This individual will play a crucial role in mentoring and guiding our cohort members by providing them with invaluable real-world knowledge and strategic guidance,” cites Dirigo Labs Program Manager Emalee Hall. “The EiR will not only contribute to the success of individual ventures but will also enhance the overall impact of our program on Maine’s cleantech ecosystem. We are excited about the possibilities this addition brings and look forward to empowering our entrepreneurs with the mentorship and expertise necessary to drive innovation and sustainable growth.”
Please submit questions and/or associated requests for information to CMGC at launchwell@dirigolabs.org, subject line: Cleantech EiR RFQ by January 21, 2024. Submittals must be made electronically to launchwell@dirigolabs.org by midnight on January 26, 2024. The full RFQ can be found on Dirigo Labs website at http://tinyurl.com/4fwyrs3w.
About Central Maine Growth Council:Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC), located in Waterville, Maine, is a public-private collaborative regional economic development partnership funded by municipalities and businesses who share a common vision of economic prosperity for our region. CMGC is committed to fostering a robust regional economy. We believe that a vibrant, healthy economy best serves our citizens’ standard of living and quality of life.
About the Governor’s Energy Office:The Maine Governor’s Energy Office (GEO), established within the Executive Department and directly responsible to the Governor, is the designated state energy office tasked with a wide range of activities relating to state energy policies, planning, and development. As the lead energy office for the state, GEO is responsible for several activities such as providing policy leadership and technical assistance, developing energy programs, monitoring energy markets, and reporting on heating fuel and energy prices. GEO works in partnership with various state agencies, federal and local officials, industry, nonprofit interests, and academia on energy issues.
Waterville-based Accelerator Program Leverages Federal Funding to Forge New Frontiers in Entrepreneurial Growth and Technology Transfer
Waterville, ME 12/14/2023 – Dirigo Labs has received $278,000 to support the future development of curriculum and expansion of services. From the congressional fiscal year of 2023, Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) funding is included in annual federal appropriations legislation to provide a specific amount of discretionary funding for state, locality, or nonprofit organization projects with a demonstrated community merit.
“Dirigo Labs has been instrumental in helping Maine start-ups get on their feet while also driving innovation to power the rural economy,” said Senator King. “This congressionally directed spending for Dirigo Labs will ensure Maine innovators have access to the resources and tools needed to find success in Maine and beyond. I’m proud to support these efforts and look forward to seeing the great work and ingenuity of Maine’s small businesses.”
“Dirigo Labs, supported by a CDS Award from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and championed by Senator Angus King, is paving the way for startup resources in mid-Maine. This award represents more than just funding; it signifies a strategic investment in the expansion and curriculum development of Dirigo Labs, supported by cutting-edge technology equipment. Simultaneously, it establishes new avenues for substantial federal funding for startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs through SBIR/STTR grant opportunities. This initiative underscores a commitment to fostering innovation, empowering startups, and positioning Dirigo Labs at the forefront of entrepreneurial growth, both regionally and beyond.,” said Central Maine Growth Council Director of Planning, Innovation, and Economic Development Garvan Donegan.
The funding allocation increases Dirigo Labs’ capacity for entrepreneurs focusing on innovative technologies that require guidance from the public and private sectors, including mentorship. Diversifying the curriculum will provide the accelerator with the means to incorporate access to federal contracts and technology transfer funding into its programming.
“We are honored to receive this funding, which will play a pivotal role in our expansion and curriculum development at Dirigo Labs. With this support, we will not only be able to assist startups in our region but also spread awareness about the unique funding opportunities the SBIR and STTR programs provide. We are deeply grateful for Senator King’s support and excited about the positive impact this funding will have on our accelerator and the entrepreneurs we serve,” said Dirigo Labs Managing Director, Susan Ruhlin.
Companies interested in pursuing Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs will work with Dirigo Labs to engage in and connect with professionals associated with Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D). For more information on Dirigo Labs, visit https://www.dirigolabs.org/
Waterville, ME 10/31/2023 – Highlighting a focus on financial knowledge and expertise, Dirigo Labs is announcing a final call for applications for its third cohort of companies. The accelerator, housed at Hathaway Creative Center in downtown Waterville, has continued to empower startups statewide to secure funding, create jobs, and encourage business expansion and retention.
Extended to 16-weeks, the accelerator’s curriculum will emphasize revenue projections, capital strategy, customer acquisition, and tactics to scale. Dirigo Labs leverages its network of local and national mentors to connect participating entrepreneurs with a tailored board of advisors to help them execute their project plans. The accelerator has continued to support entrepreneurs and startups in a range of industries, including biotechnology, healthcare technology, manufacturing, clean tech, and medical devices.
“We look forward to selecting our third cohort of startup companies, further emphasizing our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and business development,” states Dirigo Labs Managing Director Susan Ruhlin. “Dirigo Labs is dedicated to empowering these innovative entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools and support needed to secure funding, create jobs, and contribute to the growth and retention of businesses in our communities.”
Startup teams are selected based on the stage of development, founder experience, and potential to scale. Founders will also attend weekly seminars while engaging in customized curriculum to execute their project plans. Seminar topics will engage a wide range of subjects, including how to utilize public-private sector grants and economic incentives, customer acquisition strategies, capital planning, and intellectual property evaluation.
“In today’s competitive business landscape, financial literacy is an indispensable asset for founders seeking grants or technical assistance; our extended 16-week accelerator program places a strong emphasis on equipping entrepreneurs with the essential skills in pitch preparedness, revenue projections, budgeting, and business model refinement, “continues Dirigo Labs Program Manager Emalee Couture. “At Dirigo Labs, we recognize the critical role financial knowledge plays in the success of startups across diverse industries, and we’re here to ensure our founders are well-prepared to secure the support they need to thrive.”
The cohort will convene its first sessions in February. Startups who are interested in learning more about Dirigo Labs and applying can visit www.dirigolabs.org.
Seasoned Entrepreneur Jonathan Godbout to Advise Cohort Members
Waterville, ME 8/16/2023 – Dirigo Labs is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Godbout, Co-founder of Prospector, as its next entrepreneur in residence. Jonathan will advise Dirigo Labs startups and entrepreneurs as they progress through the accelerator program.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Dirigo Labs as the Entrepreneur in Residence; as a member of the first cohort, I’ve seen firsthand the tremendous impact Dirigo Labs has on startups in central Maine,” states Godbout. ”I look forward to paying it forward by assisting future cohorts of entrepreneurs as they turn their ideas into successful ventures.”
Jonathan brings a decade of diverse experience in social entrepreneurship and technology. After he completed his degree in Economics and International Studies at Colby College in Waterville, Jonathan joined IBM’s Global Business Services consulting division where he served customers in both the private and public sectors. In 2015, Jonathan co-founded iBUILD, a startup focused on building technology solutions for the construction industry. Under his leadership, iBUILD attracted high-profile clients and investors, such as Habitat for Humanity.
“With a trailblazing journey through the startup landscape, Jon brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge on navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. His battle-tested insights, honed through the trenches of founding and scaling startups, will be the compass guiding our cohort towards conquering challenges and unlocking unprecedented growth,” said Emalee Couture, Program Manager, Dirigo Labs.
Serving as CTO and COO of Prospector, a company Jonathan cofounded in 2020, the startup utilizes human-centered artificial intelligence data analytics to allow investors to better understand the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact of the mining industry. Current clients include Newmont Gold, Agnico, BHP, SRK Consulting, USGS, and FactSet. Jonathan participated in the inaugural cohort of Dirigo Labs on behalf of Prospector.
Serving as the EiR for Dirigo Labs, Jonathan will provide coaching to entrepreneurs involved in the program and advise Dirigo Labs staff on the curriculum. Dirigo Labs is located at the Hathaway Creative Center in downtown Waterville, where team members and founders collaborate. Applications for its next cohort are currently open. The next accelerator term will begin in early 2024 and conclude with a pitch event in May.
About Dirigo Labs:
Dirigo Labs is a regional startup accelerator based in Waterville, Maine. With a mission to grow mid-Maine’s digital economy by supporting entrepreneurs building innovation-based companies, the Dirigo Labs ecosystem brings together people, resources, and organizations to ensure the successful launch of new startups. Dirigo Labs operates under Central Maine Growth Council and is supported by several organizations, academic institutions, and investment firms.
Waterville – In Waterville, Genotyping Center of America is in growth mode. Founded in 2012, the company provides genetic testing and colony planning services to accelerate preclinical and drug discovery research and improve laboratory animal welfare.
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