Dirigo Launch Incubator

Every successful startup story starts with great people.



Innovative startups thrive with targeted curriculum, expert guidance, and access to collaborative space early in their development.

That’s why we bring the most promising early-stage startups together to participate in our Dirigo Launch incubator program. Apply here!

The Dirigo Launch Incubator Program supports ideation to pre-seed startups with innovative ideas, offering a solid foundation for early ventures. This 8-week fall program provides workshops, tailored homework, and office hours to help startups explore their market, identify target customers, and plan early-stage fundraising, along with specialized SBIR/STTR grant support. Additionally, customized technical assistance will be provided for startups and entrepreneurs in clean technology sectors, ensuring these companies receive tailored guidance within one of Maine’s key growth areas.

Participants gain insights from an Entrepreneur in Residence and a network of experienced mentors. The program’s interactive format promotes hands-on business growth and problem-solving, with targeted sessions on raising early stage capital.

By the program’s end, startups will understand their market, refine value propositions, and develop fundraising strategies. The Dirigo Launch Incubator Program equips startups with essential skills and connects them with a supportive community for long-term success.

Wondering what we’re looking for? Generally, the big three:

Coachability

Are you receptive to advice and willing to learn?

Feasibility

Do you have a strong business model and team?

Scalability

Does your startup have potential for rapid growth and revenue generation?

We’d like to see startups at the ideation through pre-seed stage. You might be:

Confused about where you fit in the Dirigo Labs programs?

Apply anyway; we’d love to talk with you!

Applications for our Fall 2024 cohort are open now!

Go to the cohort application
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