Meet Lou Simms: Building Momentum for Maine’s Innovators

As Senior Investment Officer and MTAF Program Manager at Maine Technology Institute, Lou Simms works closely with founders as they move ideas toward viable, growing companies. His role sits at the intersection of funding, strategy, and relationship-building: helping entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty while strengthening Maine’s innovation ecosystem. 

His motivation is simple but powerful: seeing people commit to solving real problems and building something meaningful in Maine.

A Path Rooted in Curiosity and Community

Lou’s journey to MTI began well before his current role. “E2Tech networking events drew me to apply to MTI way back in 2014,” he said, referring to the Environmental & Energy Technology Council of Maine, which supports sustainable, resilient development across Maine’s innovation landscape.

Before joining MTI, Lou completed a graduate program at the University of New Hampshire, where he researched natural resource economics. His work included time at UNH’s Sustainability Institute and research into New England dairy farmers’ economic challenges. That experience helped shape his systems-level thinking: looking at how economics, resources, and people intersect.

He also gained firsthand startup experience on the founding team of Bayside Bowl, a now-beloved Portland business. “I learned a lot about building the plane while flying, and all the challenges small businesses face, both in startup and managing growth,” Lou noted. That perspective now informs how he works with founders navigating similar uncertainty.

What the Work Looks Like Day to Day

At MTI, Lou’s work is highly collaborative and founder-focused. “Conversations with founders, reviewing applications for funding, and deploying funds to our growing companies” reflects a typical day for Lou. Those conversations are often where the real progress happens.

“Seeing a team that is committed to growing their skills and learning more about their customers and the problems they are trying to solve” gets him excited about a project.

That mindset aligns closely with MTI’s mission: supporting entrepreneurs not just with funding, but with guidance that helps them build stronger, more resilient companies.

Seeing Impact Up Close

For Lou, some of the most meaningful moments come from seeing how MTI’s support plays out over time. One experience stands out. “Visiting STARC Systems, first at TechPlace, and then at their own facility on Brunswick Landing, where they now have more than 100 Mainers on their team!”

Watching a company grow from an early-stage idea into a major employer reinforces why the work matters—not just for individual founders, but for communities across the state.

Advice Grounded in Honesty and Growth

When asked what guidance he finds himself giving entrepreneurs most often, Lou keeps it direct: “Don’t be afraid to acknowledge what you don’t yet know…make a plan to learn more!”

That advice reflects his broader view of innovation as a learning process. Progress doesn’t require having all the answers upfront. It requires curiosity, humility, and a willingness to adapt.

Looking Ahead for Maine’s Innovation Ecosystem

Lou is optimistic about where Maine’s startup community is headed. Living in Gorham, he’s seen firsthand how quality of life draws talent to the region. “I’ve met a lot of people from out-of-state who move to the Portland area because they love the quality of life and are really impressed with the startup scene,” he said. “We should embrace that and keep building on that momentum.”

At the same time, he recognizes the challenges entrepreneurs face. If he could instantly solve one issue, it would be “more housing for more workers, living in thriving, walkable communities.” 

Life Outside the Office

When he’s not supporting Maine’s innovators, Lou recharges outdoors. His hobbies include biking, hiking, and paddling around the lake, along with sledding with his son. His favorite ways to experience Maine span the seasons, from relaxing at Kettle Cove in the summer to skiing down Pleasant Mountain in the winter.

A good weekend, in his view, is simple: an outdoor adventure and some time on the beach.

You might also find Lou digging into podcasts from Marketplace.org or reading Strong Towns by Charles Marohn. And when it comes to local food, Orchard Ridge Farm earns his vote for “killer breakfast sammies.”

Supporting the People Building Maine’s Future

For Lou, the most inspiring part of his role at MTI is watching founders succeed. “Seeing founders successfully build a growing business from what started as an idea is truly inspiring,” he stated. “We are always meeting new founders and finding ways to attract more talented people to our state.”

Through thoughtful investment, honest conversations, and a deep appreciation for Maine’s communities, Lou Simms continues to help ensure that innovation has room to grow, right here at home.