November Updates: Launching the Maine Life Sciences Center, Gift Guide, and More

It seemed just a moment ago we were enjoying mild fall temps, but the weather recently has made it clear winter is coming.  It’s been a busy fall and will be an equally busy winter at MTI. Last week, in collaboration with our great partner Startup Maine, we hosted a networking and portfolio showcase event in Rockport – it was wonderful to see those of you who could attend.  The event proved lively, full of robust conversations and networking and was topped off with wonderful food and beverage.  Thank you to those who could join us in the midcoast.  Our next networking event will be part of Startup week in spring, 2026, but if you want to stay connected to the MTI ecosystem, our monthly MxG meetings (Maine Accelerates growth) is an excellent way to remain involved – MxG meets monthly on the 3rd Thursday of every month from 11-12.

Last week, we also closed out the application period for MTAF 3.0 and the review process is underway now.   MTI intends to announce the selected MTAF 3.0 applicants by January 31, 2026.

As you all know, last month the Maine Life Sciences Center (MLSC) was officially launched.  The MLSC was established by Governor Mills but is housed within MTI.  Now, the administration is officially seeking nominations for the inaugural Advisory Board of the Maine Life Sciences Center. This is a chance to join a hands-on group of leaders dedicated to accelerating Maine’s innovation-driven economy.

The Advisory Board will be instrumental in:

• Setting strategy and guiding early progress;
• Strengthening connections across research, industry, and education; and
• Catalyzing significant growth throughout Maine’s life sciences sector. 

If you are passionate about advancing Maine’s life sciences ecosystem—or know a leader who is ready to make a tangible impact—we invite you to get involved, just complete this call for nominations form. The application for nominations will remain open until November 28.  

With the colder temps, the holiday season is on its way – this year we have revived the  MTI holiday gift guide to help you support innovative Maine businesses and entrepreneurs, and get your shopping done!  There is truly something for everyone in this guide – so be sure to check it out.  If you are an MTI portfolio company and would like to be included in the gift guide, there is still time for us to sneak you in, you can apply here.

Finally, we want to extend our congratulations to Bigelow Lab for the launch of their cutting edge accelerator program designed to help scientists and entrepreneurs turn marine biotechnology ideas into viable businesses.  We look forward to being part of the continued growth and innovation in Maine’s blue economy.

Until next time, my warmest wishes in these cozy, chilly days.

BW