[{"id":20020,"date":"2026-07-02T11:39:52","date_gmt":"2026-07-02T15:39:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/?page_id=20020"},"modified":"2026-07-02T11:40:57","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T15:40:57","slug":"wholetrees","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/wholetrees\/","title":{"rendered":"WholeTrees"},"content":{"rendered":"

WholeTrees<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
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Maine\u2019s innovation community will continue to serve as a source of mentorship and potential financial support, united by a shared goal of bringing greater economic development to the state\u2019s rural forest communities.<\/strong><\/p>\u2013Amelia Baxter, Co-Founder & CEO, WholeTrees Structures
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Transforming Forest Resources Into Sustainable Building Solutions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Across rural Maine, a new kind of forest-based innovation is taking root, and WholeTrees Structures is leading that shift with sustainable building materials sourced directly from regional forests. The company transforms Solid Structural Timber into durable, high-value components for architects and commercial builders nationwide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their work addresses a long-standing challenge in rural forest communities: the loss of access to high-value timber markets and the economic decline that follows. WholeTrees is helping reverse that trend by creating modern uses for timber that retain the natural strength and beauty of the tree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Solid Structural Timber refers to large, single pieces of wood used as structural elements in construction. It retains the tree\u2019s natural strength and grain rather than gluing and reassembling pieces, giving new life to material often treated as waste. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

WholeTrees has spent nearly two decades applying this resource in commercial projects across the country, including zoo habitats, large and small playscapes, and custom installations for public spaces. Recent examples include the Smithsonian Zoo\u2019s Panda Habitat and the Children\u2019s Museum of the East End\u2019s new natural playground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opening a new facility in Ashland, Maine in early 2024 marked an important milestone. The team transferred operational knowledge from its Wisconsin headquarters, integrated advanced digital tools, and began sourcing Solid Structural Timber from regional forests. MTI\u2019s funding and MERC support helped accelerate that ramp-up by strengthening operations, expanding the sales and marketing team, and securing legal and storytelling resources to establish their Maine presence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That investment has already produced measurable results. The company added 15 new jobs in Aroostook County, with projections to exceed 40 by 2028. Their east coast sales funnel grew more than 30% in the first year of the Maine facility opening, and revenue continues to increase steadily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As demand for sustainable building materials expands, WholeTrees is positioned to scale Solid Structural Timber into new markets while contributing to the strength and resilience of Maine\u2019s forest-based economy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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15<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

New jobs to Aroostook County, ME<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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30%+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

increase in sales funnel in the first year<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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196%<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

average monthly website traffic growth by yea<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\"WholeTrees<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"WholeTrees<\/figure>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Maine\u2019s innovation community will continue to serve as a source of mentorship and potential financial support, united by a shared goal of bringing greater economic development to the state\u2019s rural forest communities. \u2013Amelia Baxter, Co-Founder & CEO, WholeTrees Structures Transforming Forest Resources Into Sustainable Building Solutions Across rural Maine, a new kind of forest-based…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":20039,"parent":164,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-20020","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nWholeTrees - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover how WholeTrees Structures is leading the shift of sustainable building materials sourced directly from regional forests. 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FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MTI Funding FAQs<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>General MTI Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000043\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong>What is the Maine Technology Institute (MTI)?<\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000043\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maine Technology Institute (commonly referred to as MTI) is a nonprofit that supports Maine’s innovation economy. Founded and funded in 1999 by the Maine State Legislature, MTI offers grants, loans, equity investments, and services to businesses and organizations across the state.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000044\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong>What services does MTI offer?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000044\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI has four programs that it runs continuously: <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/\">Maalgelinta Hal-abuurka Ganacsiga<\/a>, the <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/maine-entrepreneurial-resource-corps-merc\/\">Maine Entrepreneurial Resource Corps<\/a>, <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/event-sponsorship\/\">Kafiilka Dhacdada<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/federal-funding-application-support\/\">Kaalmada Maalgelinta Federaalka<\/a>. MTI also occasionally runs other programs or competitions to support specific initiatives.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000045\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Is there a deadline to apply for MTI support?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000045\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI’s four core programs do not have deadlines to apply – applicants may apply at any time.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000046\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong>How do I get started?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000046\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Business Innovation Funding, the first step is to complete the <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/business-innovation-funding-get-started\/\">Startup Questionnaire<\/a>. For Federal Funding Assistance, start with the <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/federal-funding-application-support\/sbir-sttr-assessment\/\">assessment<\/a> on that program’s page. For other programs, submit an Interest Form directly from the program page.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000047\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>I have confidential business information. Will MTI staff sign an NDA?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000047\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI is bound by its governing legal statute that emphasizes confidentiality in all its dealings with clients. MTI staff, technology reviewers, and board members all sign confidentiality agreements and conflict of interest policies. MTI staff do not sign individual NDAs, but if businesses have concerns beyond the scope of the protections offered in our existing documents, they may reach out to MTI to explore additional options.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000048\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What should I do if I am having issues with MTI’s online portal?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000048\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI has a guidance document with instructions and troubleshooting for using our online portal. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/docs\/MTI-APPLICATION-PORTAL-GUIDANCE.pdf\">Please review this guidance document if you are encountering any issues<\/a>. If you are still unable to resolve the issue, please reach out to MTI at <a href=\"mailto:info@mainetechnology.org\">info@mainetechnology.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-28008bfed3429d8c26bd35cd461dcab3\"><strong>Business Innovation Funding Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000049\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>How does MTI decide if a proposal is innovative?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000049\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI funds innovations that drive scaling and significant economic impact in Maine, create a competitive advantage by being substantially different from existing alternatives, and have a credible path to defending that advantage over time. MTI has published a detailed innovation standard on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/eligibility-requirements\/\" type=\"page\" id=\"17867\">Eligibility Requirements page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000050\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Does MTI only fund technology companies?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000050\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI’s primary focus is technical and scientific innovation, but the innovation does not have to be a technology product. A company developing a new manufacturing process, a novel aquaculture method, or an innovative approach to forest products harvesting could all qualify. Innovation can also be internal to the company rather than customer-facing.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000051\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What types of projects does MTI fund?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000051\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI funds projects that develop, commercialize, and scale innovative products, services, and processes. Common activities include R&D, prototyping, IP protection, commercialization, regulatory work, and hiring key team members.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000052\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>How much funding can I apply for?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000052\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most BIF awards are grants, typically starting between $10,000 and $30,000 for first-time applicants. Cumulative grant funding can reach $100,000 per company as the business progresses.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000053\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What is MTI’s cumulative grant cap?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000053\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI limits cumulative Business Innovation Funding grants to $100,000 per enterprise. An enterprise is generally defined as an individual business, organization, or leadership team. Loans and equity are separate instruments and do not count toward the grant cap. Funding from other MTI programs such as <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/maine-entrepreneurial-resource-corps-merc\/\">MERC<\/a> also does not count toward the BIF grant cap.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000054\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Does MTI offer loans or equity investments?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000054\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. For companies with a track record of growth and the financial position to support repayable funding, MTI may offer loans or equity investments. Most BIF applicants apply for grants. For more detail, visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/loans-and-equity-investments\/\">Loans and Equity Investments page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000055\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Are nonprofits eligible for Business Innovation Funding?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000055\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">BIF is designed to support scalable businesses that will create jobs and generate economic growth in Maine. Most nonprofits do not meet the program’s requirements. In limited cases, a nonprofit developing a genuinely innovative product, process, or technology with commercial potential may be eligible. Nonprofits whose projects focus on supporting Maine’s broader innovation ecosystem may be a better fit for MTI’s <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/innovation-ecosystem-development\/\">Innovation Ecosystem Development program<\/a> ama <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/event-sponsorship\/\">Event Sponsorship program<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000056\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>How does MTI determine if a business is Maine-based?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000056\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The company must maintain a regular place of business in Maine and have at least one C-suite level W2 employee, or a principal or founder with significant equity ownership and an active leadership role, living in Maine full-time. Contractors, consultants, and non-executive employees do not satisfy the leadership requirement.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000057\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What counts as matching funds?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000057\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI requires a matching investment equal to or greater than the amount of funding requested. Cash match is weighted most heavily. The required proportion of cash match increases with cumulative funding level: at least 50% cash for funding up to $15K, 70% for $15K-$30K, 80% for $30K-$60K, and 100% cash for $60K-$100K. In some cases, MTI will consider sweat equity or in-kind contributions for the non-cash portion. Sweat equity rates are capped at $50\/hr for principals and $30\/hr for others.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000058\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Can I apply for additional funding after my first project?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000058\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Many MTI clients receive multiple rounds of funding over time. Each subsequent request is evaluated based on the company’s cumulative funding tier. MTI also considers your performance on prior awards as part of the review.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000059\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What does MTI mean by “quality jobs”?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000059\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jobs that offer competitive wages and benefits relative to the regional economy. What constitutes a quality job varies by sector and geography.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000060\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What are “conditions” on an MTI award?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000060\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI may approve a funding request with conditions that must be met before funding is fully released. MTI may also approve an award with tranched payments, with disbursements based on the achievement of milestones. Your MTI team member will explain any conditions and work with you to meet them.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000061\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What happens if my application is denied?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000061\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your MTI team member will explain the reasons and provide feedback. In some cases, you may be able to reapply after addressing specific factors. MTI may also refer you to other programs or partners.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000062\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>How long does the application review take?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000062\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typically around 2 months, depending on the amount of funding requested and complexity.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000063\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Can I start my project before receiving an MTI decision?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000063\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI will not reimburse project costs incurred before an applicant has contacted MTI and begun the application process. Once you are in the process, speak with your Investment Officer to ensure expenditures fall within the eligible timeline.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000064\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Do I need a prototype before applying?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000064\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not necessarily. For funding up to $30,000, a working prototype is not required. At higher funding levels, MTI generally expects to see a working prototype or proof of concept.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000065\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Can businesses outside of Maine apply?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000065\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Businesses with plans to establish a presence in Maine may apply, but funding will not be released until substantial progress has been made in securing a Maine location.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000066\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What does MTI mean by “technology sectors”?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000066\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI’s seven sectors are broad: Biotechnology, Composites & Advanced Materials, Environmental Technologies, Forest Products & Agriculture, Information Technology, Marine Technology & Aquaculture, and Precision Manufacturing. Your business doesn’t need to be a “tech company” in the conventional sense.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000067\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Does MTI fund businesses that are already generating revenue?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000067\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. A company that is already profitable may still qualify for BIF if it is developing a new innovation that meets MTI’s standard.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000068\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Can I use MTI funding to hire employees?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000068\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Hiring key team members is a common use of MTI funding, particularly when the hire is essential to advancing the innovation.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000069\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What is a Technology Board review?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000069\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For larger funding requests, MTI may engage external reviewers with relevant expertise. The process is confidential.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-red-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3bf4f1d65968ba327dd72886e9c32b94\"><strong>MERC Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000070\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What is MERC?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000070\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MERC connects eligible Maine businesses with vetted, Maine-based consultants for short-term projects. MTI covers 50% of the project fee, up to $15,000 per year or $30,000 over the lifetime of a business’s participation.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000071\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What’s the difference between MERC and Business Innovation Funding?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000071\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">BIF provides direct funding for companies to develop their own innovations. MERC subsidizes consulting services. Companies can participate in both – MERC funding does not count toward the BIF cumulative grant cap.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000072\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Can I choose my own consultant?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000072\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI maintains a database of vetted, Maine-based consultants. If you’d like to work with a consultant who isn’t in the database, they can apply to be onboarded and approved.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000073\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Do I need to have an innovation to qualify for MERC?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000073\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MERC eligibility requires a connection to one of MTI’s seven technology sectors and an innovation, similar to BIF. However, MERC is designed for businesses that need consulting support to address specific challenges, not necessarily companies at the same stage as BIF applicants. Your business must also be under $5 million in annual revenue. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, submit an interest form and the MERC coordinator can help assess your fit.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000074\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What is the MERC AI training program?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000074\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI offers free, self-paced AI training to Maine businesses through a partnership with Coursera. This is separate from MERC’s consulting services and gives you access to Coursera’s full Generative AI course catalog, plus a learning path curated by MTI for Maine’s small businesses.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Federal Funding (SBIR\/STTR) Questions<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000075\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What is SBIR\/STTR?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000075\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Federal programs that fund high-risk, early-stage R&D of innovative technologies. MTI serves as Maine’s official SBIR\/STTR support organization.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000076\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Does MTI’s support cost anything?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000076\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. TAP services are free to eligible Maine businesses.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000077\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What’s the difference between BIF and SBIR\/STTR?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000077\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">BIF is MTI’s own funding. SBIR\/STTR is federal funding that MTI helps you apply for.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000078\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Can I get BIF and SBIR\/STTR funding?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000078\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. They are separate programs. SBIR\/STTR awards can sometimes be used as matching funds for a BIF application.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-e2fe434c411183b7254ec460871e152e\"><strong><strong><strong>Event Sponsorship Questions<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000079\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What types of events does MTI sponsor?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000079\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Events that support Maine’s innovation economy. Typical awards range from $1,000 to $5,000. In some cases, MTI may make a larger award for events with significant reach or impact.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000080\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Does my event need to be held in Maine?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000080\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The vast majority of events MTI sponsors are held in Maine. Out-of-state events would need to demonstrate a direct and clear benefit to Maine’s innovation economy.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000081\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Who can apply?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000081\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any organization can apply, as long as the event meets one of the sponsorship goals.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d46172b074bcc1ff081156ff49d45ee5\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Kobcinta nidaamka deegaanka hal-abuurka<\/strong> Questions<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000082\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>What is the <strong>Kobcinta nidaamka deegaanka hal-abuurka<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong> Program (<strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>IEDP)?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000082\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A competitive grant program for organizations seeking to build programs that support innovation and entrepreneurship in Maine’s technology sectors. Awards require 1:1 matching co-investment.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000083\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Is the IEDP currently accepting applications?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000083\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The IEDP is not currently accepting applications. The next round is expected to open in early fall 2026. Contact Tom Kittredge at <a href=\"mailto:tkittredge@mainetechnology.org\">tkittredge@mainetechnology.org<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Cross-Program Questions<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which MTI program is right for me?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent match-height has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">I’m developing an innovative product, service, or process and need funding to move it forward.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/\"><strong>Maalgelinta Hal-abuurka Ganacsiga<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent match-height has-green-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">I’m conducting significant R&D and looking for federal funding to support it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-dark-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/federal-funding-application-support\/\"><strong>Federal Funding (SBIR\/STTR)<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group match-height is-style-20% transparent is-style-20-transparent has-dark-red-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">I need expert consulting help with a specific business challenge.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-dark-red-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/maine-entrepreneurial-resource-corps-merc\/\"><strong>MERC<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group match-height is-style-20% transparent is-style-20-transparent has-purple-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">I’m organizing an event that connects, educates, or celebrates Maine innovators and entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-purple-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/event-sponsorship\/\"><strong><strong>Kafiilka Dhacdada<\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent match-height has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">I run an organization supporting entrepreneurs and want to build or expand a program.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/innovation-ecosystem-development\/\"><strong><strong>Kobcinta nidaamka deegaanka hal-abuurka<\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you’re not sure, submit an interest form and an MTI team member will help point you in the right direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000084\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Can I participate in multiple MTI programs?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000084\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. MTI’s programs are designed to complement each other. SBIR\/STTR awards can also be used as matching funds for a BIF application. MERC and SBIR\/STTR support do not count toward the BIF cumulative grant cap.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-2000085\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>I’m not sure I’m eligible for any MTI program. Who should I talk to?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-2000085\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Submit an interest form and an MTI team member will follow up to discuss your situation. Even if you’re not a fit for MTI right now, we can often point you toward other organizations and resources that may be able to help.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<style>\r\n.has-dark-blue-color {\r\n color: #036496 !important;\r\n}\r\n.has-dark-red-color {\r\n color: #b53f15 !important;\r\n}\r\n.has-purple-color {\r\n color: #7558a5 !important;\r\n}\r\n<\/style>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MTI Funding FAQs General MTI Questions Business Innovation Funding Questions MERC Questions Federal Funding (SBIR\/STTR) Questions Event Sponsorship Questions Innovation Ecosystem Development Questions Cross-Program Questions Which MTI program is right for me? I’m developing an innovative product, service, or process and need funding to move it forward. I’m conducting significant R&D and looking for federal…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":0,"parent":14818,"menu_order":7,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-20000","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Funding FAQs - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/funding-faqs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"so_SO\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Funding FAQs - Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"MTI Funding FAQs General MTI Questions Business Innovation Funding Questions MERC Questions Federal Funding (SBIR\/STTR) Questions Event Sponsorship Questions Innovation Ecosystem Development Questions Cross-Program Questions Which MTI program is right for me? 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Institute"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MaineTechnologyInstitute\/","http:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/companies\/maine-technology-institute","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/MaineTechInstitute"]}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/20000","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20000"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/20000\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20010,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/20000\/revisions\/20010"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14818"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20000"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":19981,"date":"2026-06-22T15:11:53","date_gmt":"2026-06-22T19:11:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/?page_id=19981"},"modified":"2026-06-22T15:33:44","modified_gmt":"2026-06-22T19:33:44","slug":"loans-and-equity-investments","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/loans-and-equity-investments\/","title":{"rendered":"Loans and Equity Investments"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Loans and Equity Investments<\/strong><\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-large-intro wp-block-paragraph\">Your organization or project must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Business Innovation Funding.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-box-clip\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"670\" height=\"560\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/WellSort-FeaturedImage.jpg\" alt=\"Sawirka La Soo Bandhigay ee WellSort\" class=\"wp-image-18949\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/WellSort-FeaturedImage.jpg 670w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/WellSort-FeaturedImage-300x251.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/WellSort-FeaturedImage-14x12.jpg 14w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MTI’s Funding Continuum <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI supports companies from early-stage development through later-stage growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent match-height has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-665315bf16f12cf13b4556d6d61bfb9b\"><strong>GRANTS<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bf8da6f4e2abe08b414803216fae9416\">$10,000 – $100,000 cumulative<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8b823931c7e92ee8ae48719b12a57045 wp-block-paragraph\">Most BIF awards. First-time awards typically $10K-$30K.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-619d9072218308fd3a5325b01ddcd841 wp-block-paragraph\">Tier 1: Up to $30K<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7712ba3ed0c0a171699c8ddc94b94fd1 wp-block-paragraph\">Tier 2: $30K-$60k<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f9e82f3f675ccc8e9554544d8d4e401d wp-block-paragraph\">Tier 3: $60K-$100k<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent match-height has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-22fc24793692456a9eb9edc506b0d49c\"><strong>LOANS & EQUITY<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9c9f4e1af73dd3372a4717129063e6f1\"><strong>Beyond $100K<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-sans-serif has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fa0b4b19e3eeeb70f657ca58a6c56108 wp-block-paragraph\">For later-stage companies with proven products and the ability to take on repayable or investable funding.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/BIF-BeyondGrants-Icon.svg\" alt=\"Business Innovation Funding - Beyond Grants Icon\" class=\"wp-image-19996\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.9992406753852862;width:153px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beyond Grants: Funding for Later-Stage Companies<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most MTI Business Innovation Funding is awarded as grants. For companies that have progressed beyond grant-stage funding, MTI may also offer loans or equity investments. These are intended for companies with a demonstrated track record, a proven product, and the financial position to support repayable or investable funding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your MTI team member will recommend the appropriate funding structure based on your company’s stage of development, financial position, and the nature of the project.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What MTI Looks For<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The expectations for loans and equity are significantly higher than for grants. MTI is looking for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A working product with real customers and evidence of sales<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A leadership team with the skills, experience, and governance to manage a larger investment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Credible financial projections supported by data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Significant economic impact proportional to the size of the investment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sufficient matching funds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/BIF-WhatMTILooksFor-Icon-1.svg\" alt=\"What MTI Looks For Icon\" class=\"wp-image-19997\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.9920844325355719;object-fit:cover;width:153px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/BIF-LoanEquity-Icon.svg\" alt=\"Loan Equity Icon\" class=\"wp-image-19998\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.0446931718753079;object-fit:cover;width:153px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Loans vs. Equity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Loans <\/strong>may be appropriate for companies that can demonstrate an ability to service debt through existing revenue and cash flow. MTI evaluates the company’s revenue history, cash flow, and ability to repay while continuing to grow. Both current MTI portfolio companies and companies new to MTI may be considered for loans. In certain industries with long commercialization timelines, MTI may consider a loan where the company demonstrates other strong evidence of repayment ability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Equity investments <\/strong>are only available to current MTI portfolio companies in good standing. MTI participates in equity rounds alongside other investors and requires a committed lead investor. Equity investments are governed by MTI’s Equity Investment Policy and reviewed by MTI’s Equity Review Committee. Following an investment, MTI typically takes a board observer seat and requires quarterly performance reporting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Companies that receive loan or equity funding remain eligible for other MTI programs, including future grants, MERC consulting, and SBIR\/STTR support.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Getting Started<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you believe your company may be a candidate for loan or equity funding, speak with your MTI team member. If you’re new to MTI, <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/business-innovation-funding-get-started\/\">start with the Startup Questionnaire<\/a> ama <a href=\"https:\/\/bbgm-apply.yourcausegrants.com\/apply\/programs\/aeb15516-b90f-4698-8b77-07f01606adcb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">submit an interest form<\/a> – your MTI team member will help determine the right funding structure for your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Have questions about loan or equity funding? <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/funding-faqs\/\">Visit our FAQ<\/a>, or speak with your MTI team member.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull overlay-section is-style-blue\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"670\" height=\"560\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Bluesonde-FeaturedImage.jpg\" alt=\"Sawirka Muuqda ee Bluesonde\" class=\"wp-image-19700\" style=\"width:463px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Bluesonde-FeaturedImage.jpg 670w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Bluesonde-FeaturedImage-300x251.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Bluesonde-FeaturedImage-14x12.jpg 14w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>Access to MTI\u2019s early-stage funding has been one of our biggest advantages. Many startups struggle to secure capital before they are ready for angel or VC investment, and MTI\u2019s tech-focused grants help bridge that gap and accelerate progress.<\/p><cite>\u2013John Williams, Co-Founder, Bluesonde Technologies<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/bluesonde\/\">Read Innovator Spotlight<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your organization or project must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Business Innovation Funding. MTI’s Funding Continuum MTI supports companies from early-stage development through later-stage growth. GRANTS $10,000 – $100,000 cumulative Most BIF awards. First-time awards typically $10K-$30K. Tier 1: Up to $30K Tier 2: $30K-$60k Tier 3: $60K-$100k…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":0,"parent":14807,"menu_order":6,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19981","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Loans and Equity Investments - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/loans-and-equity-investments\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"so_SO\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Loans and Equity Investments - Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Your organization or project must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Business Innovation Funding. 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Tier 1: Up to $30K Tier 2: $30K-$60k Tier 3: $60K-$100k...\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/loans-and-equity-investments\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MaineTechnologyInstitute\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-06-22T19:33:44+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/WellSort-FeaturedImage.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"670\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"3 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/explore-funding-programs\\\/business-innovation-funding\\\/loans-and-equity-investments\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/explore-funding-programs\\\/business-innovation-funding\\\/loans-and-equity-investments\\\/\",\"name\":\"Loans and Equity Investments - 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U-qalmitaanka"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Shuruudaha U-qalmitaanka<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-large-intro wp-block-paragraph\">Your organization or project must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Business Innovation Funding.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/criteria-icon.svg\" alt=\"Criteria for Application icon\" class=\"wp-image-16396\" style=\"width:150px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expand each criteria for more information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-199750\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong>Waa inaad noqotaa urur ku salaysan Maine<\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-199750\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To qualify as a Maine-based organization, you must:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Be registered with the State of Maine’s Bureau of Corporations (or complete registration before funding is released).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintain a regular place of business in Maine where company work is regularly conducted. A home office qualifies; a mailing address, PO box, or registered agent alone does not.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have at least one of the following living in Maine full-time for at least the duration of the award: a C-suite level W2 employee, or a principal or founder with significant equity ownership and an active leadership role in the company.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contractors, consultants, and non-executive employees do not satisfy the leadership requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Businesses actively participating in an approved Maine-based accelerator or university program may also be eligible at MTI’s discretion if they can demonstrate that the business plans to remain in Maine beyond the duration of the program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For organizations with plans to establish a presence in Maine, any approved MTI funding will not be released until substantial progress has been made in securing a Maine location and activities are underway in Maine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At higher funding levels, MTI also evaluates your long-term commitment to growing the business in Maine. A strong preference exists for companies where the Maine employee count is greater than the number in any other single state.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-199751\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong>Hal-abuurnimadaadu waa inay ku dhacdaa mid ka mid ah toddobada qaybood ee tignoolajiyada la beegsaday<\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-199751\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Either your organization or your innovation must be connected to one or more of MTI’s seven Targeted Technology Sectors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bayoteknoolajiyadda<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Composites & Advanced Materials<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Environmental Technologies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Forest Products & Agriculture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tiknoolajiyada Macluumaadka<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marine Technology & Aquaculture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soo-saarista Saxda ah<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-199752\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong>Your organization must have an innovation that meets MTI’s standard<\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-199752\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI’s focus is supporting the research, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies that empower Maine businesses to scale and generate economic impact in Maine. MTI funds innovations that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Drive scaling and significant Maine economic impact<\/strong> that the company could not achieve without them<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Create a competitive advantage<\/strong> by being substantially different from existing alternatives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Have a credible path to defending that advantage<\/strong> against competitors over time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The innovation may originate from the company’s own work or from legitimately acquired technology (such as university research or licensed IP), provided it has not already been commercialized and the company is doing meaningful work to bring it to market. Technology that has been commercialized elsewhere may still qualify where the company is doing substantial engineering to adapt it to a materially new application or sector, beyond deploying it as-is in a new market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The strongest fits for MTI support are innovations that involve solving meaningful scientific or technical challenges. Non-technical innovations, such as business model innovations, meet MTI’s innovation standard when the applicant demonstrates compelling evidence of defensibility and barriers to entry, validated customer demand, and significant market opportunity. Because these innovations do not have the protection that technical complexity provides, the evidence on each must be stronger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The following are very rarely a sufficient basis for an innovation argument on their own.<\/strong> For them to be considered as a core basis of the innovation argument, the applicant must present a compelling and credible case that the business has a defensible competitive advantage and a clear path to scale the business and generate significant economic impact in Maine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Off-the-shelf technology:<\/strong> Purchasing or deploying off-the-shelf equipment, software, or technology<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AI wrapper applications:<\/strong> Building on existing AI models without solving technical challenges beyond prompt engineering<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Combining or repackaging:<\/strong> Existing ingredients, components, technologies, or formulations – unless the combination required solving a genuine technical challenge that substantially differentiates the result<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Incremental improvements:<\/strong> To existing business practices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Geographic novelty:<\/strong> Being the first to offer an existing product or service in a region<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Creative works:<\/strong> Creating content, media, video games, or other creative works. Companies developing genuinely new creative technology such as a novel engine or development tool are evaluated on that technical work, not the creative output.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Relationships, location, pricing, or branding alone:<\/strong> Competitive advantages based solely on relationships, geographic proximity, pricing strategy, or branding<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>This standard reflects how MTI generally evaluates innovation, not a rigid test. MTI weighs each application as a whole and retains discretion to apply the standard with judgment in exceptional cases.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-199753\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong>Your innovation must enable your organization to create economic impact in Maine<\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-199753\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI funds businesses that will create quality jobs and generate economic growth in Maine. Your business should have a credible path toward meaningful economic impact, and the project should advance the company along that path. What constitutes “quality jobs” varies by sector and geography, but generally means jobs that offer competitive wages and benefits relative to the regional economy. At higher funding levels, MTI expects greater economic impact with stronger evidence supporting those projections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you’re not sure if your project or organization contributes to economic growth in Maine, start an interest form and we can help you assess whether your project is the right fit.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-199754\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\"><strong>Waa inaad heli kartaa lacag u dhigma<\/strong><\/h3><div id=\"ac-199754\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI requires a matching investment equal to or greater than the amount of MTI funding requested. All MTI funding requires a concurrent cash investment. Cash match is weighted more heavily than other forms of match in the application review process. In some cases, MTI will consider sweat equity or in-kind contributions for part of the match, but the required proportion of cash match increases with cumulative funding level:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>$0 – $15,000 cumulative: at least 50% of match must be cash<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$15,001 – $30,000 cumulative: at least 70% cash<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$30,001 – $60,000 cumulative: at least 80% cash<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$60,001 – $100,000 cumulative: 100% cash<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sweat equity (founders’ uncompensated time on the project) is generally only accepted for early-stage companies and should represent a small proportion of total matching funds. Rates are capped at $50\/hr for principals and $30\/hr for all other individuals.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ready to apply? <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/evaluation-process\/\">Learn how MTI evaluates applications on the How Applications Are Evaluated page<\/a>, or <a href=\"\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/business-innovation-funding-get-started\/\">take the Startup Questionnaire<\/a> to get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull overlay-section is-style-blue\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"2400\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq.jpg\" alt=\"Andrew Rinaldi, Co-founder, Defendify\" class=\"wp-image-17040\" style=\"width:463px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq.jpg 2400w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq-2048x2048.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Headshot-2-sq-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>MTI plays a vital role in the Maine innovation community and economy. Defendify would not be where it is today without MTI’s early and ongoing support, financially and strategically.<\/p><cite>\u2013Andrew Rinaldi, Co-founder, Defendify<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/defendify\/\">Read Innovator Spotlight<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your organization or project must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Business Innovation Funding. Expand each criteria for more information Ready to apply? Learn how MTI evaluates applications on the How Applications Are Evaluated page, or take the Startup Questionnaire to get started. MTI plays a vital role in the Maine…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"parent":14807,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19975","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Eligibility Requirements - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/eligibility-requirements\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"so_SO\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Eligibility Requirements - Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Your organization or project must meet the following criteria to be eligible for Business Innovation Funding. 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Energy Homes"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-red-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-df56eb25dcfeaa2067f92c91f6c12221\">Zero Energy Homes<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull overlay-section is-style-orange\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/PryorCaroline021-Web-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Caroline Pryor, President, Zero Energy Homes\" class=\"wp-image-19859\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/PryorCaroline021-Web-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/PryorCaroline021-Web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/PryorCaroline021-Web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/PryorCaroline021-Web-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/PryorCaroline021-Web-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/PryorCaroline021-Web-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p><strong>Founding and growing Zero Energy Homes allows me to combine several of the things I\u2019m passionate about: climate and solar energy, healthier, more local materials, and community development.<\/strong><\/p><cite>\u2013Caroline Pryor, President, Zero Energy Homes<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:38px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:89px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:66px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Building a Scalable Model for Affordable, Solar-Powered Homes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maine is projected to need more than 80,000 new housing units over the next five years, while many potential homebuyers are looking for more cost-effective options. Zero Energy Homes is working to meet that need by delivering affordable, high-quality homes built with at least 80% Maine and regional building materials. The homes are comfortable, modern, healthy, and designed to have little to no energy costs. That approach aligns with state efforts to support clean energy and economic development through businesses that use Maine\u2019s natural resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Founded in 2023 as an LLC, Zero Energy Homes launched as a worker-owned cooperative in December 2025. The company\u2019s homes are priced to be accessible to year-round residents earning from 80% to 160% of their area median income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rethinking How Homes Are Built<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zero Energy Homes is developing a new model for how homes are designed, sourced, financed, produced, and delivered. The company currently uses off-site panelization and is preparing to use off-site modular manufacturing at a facility in Wiscasset. Modular construction offers production efficiencies that can create meaningful cost savings and higher-quality, precision-built homes. Zero Energy Homes intends to use the manufacturing process as a platform for bringing Maine-developed technologies and innovations into broader operational use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its approach also supports Maine\u2019s forest products economy. The Zero Energy Homes supply chain creates a stable demand for local products and supports both rural Maine economies and conservation of Maine forests through viable sustainable forestry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zero Energy Homes has shown that a single-family home in Maine can be built with more than 80% Maine and regional materials and labor while remaining attainable for year-round residents. The model brings together housing access, clean energy, rural economic development, and sustainable working forests.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group award-stats-col is-style-orange\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0f6c07ad574b000e4c8c6afe3329d3af\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">5<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-324379db2b9ac987e64eea3a50c0402b\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">homes built or currently under construction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5909f81c90de6f47b50033daceb25f3d\" style=\"color:#ffffff\"><strong>18,000<\/strong> sq ft<strong> <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a1439eb3a4be28e8e6cd53d803ca3ec0\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">leased for modular home production in Wiscasset<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-fad6e9bf3df76089bacdffc31ececd86\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">18 customers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a1200da2edbb98d5e23dbb1a99944a10\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">provided deposits on home builds; 39% are homebuyers earning less than area median income<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8654057f736bc5871ab0d6ac48808661\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">$100,000+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-87bccbdc3cc89ef861a8933695f9f8f7\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">estimated lifetime savings from the Osprey model in Maine\u2019s most competitive housing markets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-76533cf52cbec2bd382a8cc929bc1f89\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">80%+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-28fdd052640c9995bfd30660dd326d3d\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">Maine materials and labor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ZEH-Team-Photo_Aug2025-1-Web-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Zero Energy Homes Team posed outside of build\" class=\"wp-image-19857\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ZEH-Team-Photo_Aug2025-1-Web-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ZEH-Team-Photo_Aug2025-1-Web-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ZEH-Team-Photo_Aug2025-1-Web-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ZEH-Team-Photo_Aug2025-1-Web-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ZEH-Team-Photo_Aug2025-1-Web-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ZEH-Team-Photo_Aug2025-1-Web-16x12.jpg 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MTI\u2019s Role in Moving the Business Forward<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As Zero Energy Homes prepared to enter the market, Maine\u2019s housing landscape changed significantly. Home prices rose during the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring the company to revise its strategy, absorb new expenses, and rebuild its path toward a demonstration home and customer pipeline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Support from MTI helped the company regain momentum. Through PRIME 2, Zero Energy Homes fast-tracked the hire of Vice President of Operations Steve Eaton to lead a statewide search for a manufacturing facility, capture lessons from the completion of the Searsport demonstration home, and develop a home estimation tool. Through the MERC program, the company worked with Dream Local Digital to create a go-to-market plan rooted in customer analytics, digital advertising, website SEO, and market segmentation. MTI\u2019s Business Innovation Funding is also supporting work to advance pre-cast home foundations, with the objective of lowering costs, aligning home and foundation production, increasing project speed, and reducing concrete use and transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That support helped Zero Energy Homes validate its housing and financial model, bring its home product to market with essential support from the home estimation tool, and begin building homes. The company established a sales process, leased an 18,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Wiscasset, grew its marketing channels, and built a customer pipeline well into 2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expanding Access to Healthy, Efficient Homes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The customer response has reinforced the need Zero Energy Homes set out to address. Many Mainers value the company\u2019s focus on comfortable, healthy, solar-powered homes, especially when paired with Maine and regional materials and a more attainable price point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zero Energy Homes has completed or begun building five homes in Searsport, Brooksville, Trenton, Gorham, and Westport Island. Its Osprey demonstration home in Searsport was sold to a homebuyer earning 80% of the area median income. The company also completed an economic analysis showing that the Osprey model has achieved cost competitiveness against the median home on the market in most of Maine while providing more than $100,000 in lifetime heat and electric savings to customers in Maine\u2019s most competitive housing markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scaling a Maine-Based Housing Model<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Over the next five years, Zero Energy Homes plans to ramp up production to 50 homes per year using off-site modular construction. The company expects to employ approximately 40 people, with voluntary opportunities for employees to become worker-owners of the cooperative. The cooperative structure ensures that when the company achieves profitability, economic benefits will remain with Maine workers and in Maine communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zero Energy Homes is strongly committed to supporting underserved constituencies through its housing production and employee-ownership opportunities. The company is developing new pathways to help homebuyers finance a home and plans to expand into underserved markets, including Indigenous, veteran, and immigrant communities, mobile home replacements, resident-owned community expansions, and multifamily designs. By combining affordable housing, solar energy, modular construction, and Maine-based materials, Zero Energy Homes is working to show how local innovation can address urgent housing, climate, and economic development challenges. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Exterior-Web-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Osprey Home Model Interior Collage\" class=\"wp-image-19863\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Exterior-Web-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Exterior-Web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Exterior-Web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Exterior-Web-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Exterior-Web-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Exterior-Web-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-open-kitchen_entry-WEB-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Osprey Home Model Interior Kitchen\" class=\"wp-image-19860\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-open-kitchen_entry-WEB-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-open-kitchen_entry-WEB-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-open-kitchen_entry-WEB-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-open-kitchen_entry-WEB-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-open-kitchen_entry-WEB-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-open-kitchen_entry-WEB-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-living-room-Web-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Osprey Home Model Interior\" class=\"wp-image-19861\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-living-room-Web-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-living-room-Web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-living-room-Web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-living-room-Web-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-living-room-Web-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-living-room-Web-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-collage-Web-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Osprey Home Model Exterior\" class=\"wp-image-19868\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-collage-Web-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-collage-Web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-collage-Web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-collage-Web-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-collage-Web-2048x1364.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Osprey-Home-Model-Interior-collage-Web-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-1-WEB-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Modular build in Wiscasset Manufacturing Facility - 1\" class=\"wp-image-19865\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-1-WEB-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-1-WEB-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-1-WEB-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-1-WEB-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-1-WEB-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-1-WEB-16x12.jpg 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-2-Web-1-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Modular build in Wiscasset Manufacturing Facility - 2\" class=\"wp-image-19867\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-2-Web-1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-2-Web-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-2-Web-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-2-Web-1-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-2-Web-1-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-modular-construction-Osprey-home-model-2-Web-1-16x12.jpg 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Zero Energy Homes Thanks MTI\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/khE_WAk3WHM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Zero Energy Homes Facility Tour\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/tF02slHBfiI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Founding and growing Zero Energy Homes allows me to combine several of the things I\u2019m passionate about: climate and solar energy, healthier, more local materials, and community development. \u2013Caroline Pryor, President, Zero Energy Homes Building a Scalable Model for Affordable, Solar-Powered Homes Maine is projected to need more than 80,000 new housing…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":19873,"parent":164,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19856","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Zero Energy Homes - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover how Zero Energy Homes is building affordable, solar-powered homes in Maine using local materials, modular construction, and innovative financing.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/zero-energy-homes\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"so_SO\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Zero Energy Homes - Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover how Zero Energy Homes is building affordable, solar-powered homes in Maine using local materials, modular construction, and innovative financing.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/zero-energy-homes\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Maine Technology Institute\" 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class=\"wp-block-heading has-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-62ea7eba7de2a21aeee8115d1568d6ed\">Bluesonde<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull overlay-section is-style-purple\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-John-DMC-Deploy-WEB-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19688\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-John-DMC-Deploy-WEB-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-John-DMC-Deploy-WEB-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-John-DMC-Deploy-WEB-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-John-DMC-Deploy-WEB-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-John-DMC-Deploy-WEB-9x12.jpg 9w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-John-DMC-Deploy-WEB-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>Access to MTI\u2019s early-stage funding has been one of our biggest advantages. Many startups struggle to secure capital before they are ready for angel or VC investment, and MTI\u2019s tech-focused grants help bridge that gap and accelerate progress.<\/p><cite>\u2013John Williams, Co-Founder, Bluesonde Technologies<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bulshooyinka Xeebaha ee Smart Buoys oo Fudud in la Isticmaalo<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:14px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bluesonde Technologies is rethinking how water-quality data is gathered and maintained. Water steward organizations need continuous, precise data on marine and freshwater ecosystems for accurate condition assessments. For years, the work has been limited by equipment that\u2019s hard to deploy and even harder to service. Bluesonde\u2019s solution is a compact, smart buoy that can be dropped into the water quickly. Once deployed, it keeps performing even when conditions get challenging. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The team recognized how difficult continuous monitoring can be and saw an opportunity to build tools that better support the needs of marine researchers, port and infrastructure operators, and coastal communities. Bluesonde focused on simplicity, durability, and accessibility. Their patent-pending anti-fouling technology extends maintenance intervals, lowering service demands and cost. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The buoys monitor water-quality data like temperature, oxygen, and turbidity and can stay in the water far longer than traditional systems. Older equipment is typically larger and harder to maintain, while Bluesonde\u2019s smaller design makes it easier to deploy several units where they\u2019re needed, allowing teams to cover more of a site without adding extra work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To move from concept to working product, the team needed early resources. MTI\u2019s Business Innovation Grants and TAP support helped Bluesonde assess markets, focus on those ready for adoption, and advance product development. 2025 funding supported the first functional prototype, followed by eight MVP units placed with partners across Maine. These trials proved the system\u2019s reliability and gave the team confidence to move toward production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The impact is already visible. Field partners in organizations ranging from a university marine center to an oyster farm have praised the buoy\u2019s ease of use. Several organizations are planning for 2026 deployments following the successful trials. By lowering the barrier to continuous monitoring, Bluesonde is expanding who can collect water-quality data and how often, strengthening environmental stewardship across the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Looking ahead, Bluesonde plans to expand its ocean-tech product line and continue building a Maine-based team. Many talented Mainers leave for technical careers, and the founders want to create opportunities that bring them back to a growing blue-tech industry. Their ultimate vision is to make continuous, high-quality water monitoring accessible to far more researchers, operators, and coastal communities. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:178px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group award-stats-col is-style-purple\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b1cdaeb85323a54924b4460c4fd93582\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">5<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-163668a64814be8e8098a0798aaf7345\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">months from concept to functional prototype<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0f6021ec4e61fb4f1bfb2523be15914a\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">8<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b7acb841b02a091a0a421cf22bccb8da\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">buoys deployed across multiple partner sites in Maine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ba523d4a160db66f6e0a078cc0b8df49\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-f2e8fea631557520814ee293f8cedaad\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">biofouling maintenance required after 12-week buoy deployment (standard = 2\u20134 weeks)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/aishwarya-forepoints-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Deploying buoy \" class=\"wp-image-19689\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/aishwarya-forepoints-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/aishwarya-forepoints-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/aishwarya-forepoints-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/aishwarya-forepoints-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/aishwarya-forepoints-9x12.jpg 9w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/aishwarya-forepoints-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sebago-buoy-deployed-WEB-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sebage Bouy Deployed\" class=\"wp-image-19690\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sebago-buoy-deployed-WEB-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sebago-buoy-deployed-WEB-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sebago-buoy-deployed-WEB-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sebago-buoy-deployed-WEB-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sebago-buoy-deployed-WEB-9x12.jpg 9w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sebago-buoy-deployed-WEB-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-Forepoints-WEB-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19691\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-Forepoints-WEB-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-Forepoints-WEB-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-Forepoints-WEB-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-Forepoints-WEB-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-Forepoints-WEB-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Tim-Forepoints-WEB-16x12.jpg 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"770\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Ignite22-WEB-770x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19692\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Ignite22-WEB-770x1024.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Ignite22-WEB-226x300.jpg 226w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Ignite22-WEB-768x1021.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Ignite22-WEB-1155x1536.jpg 1155w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Ignite22-WEB-9x12.jpg 9w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Ignite22-WEB.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Tim-OCEANS-WEB-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19693\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Tim-OCEANS-WEB-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Tim-OCEANS-WEB-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Tim-OCEANS-WEB-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Tim-OCEANS-WEB-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Tim-OCEANS-WEB-9x12.jpg 9w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andrew-Tim-OCEANS-WEB-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Helitaanka maalgelinta marxaladda hore ee MTI waxay ahayd mid ka mid ah faa'iidooyinka ugu waaweyn ee aan qabno. Ganacsato badan oo cusub ayaa ku dhibtoonaya inay helaan raasamaal ka hor inta aysan u diyaarsanayn maalgashiga malaa'igta ama VC, deeqaha diiradda saaraya tignoolajiyada MTI waxay gacan ka geystaan buuxinta farqigaas iyo dardargelinta horumarka. \u2013John Williams, Aasaasaha Iskaashiga, Teknoolojiyada Bluesonde ee Fudud ee la Isticmaali karo Bulshooyinka Xeebaha ee Buoys ee Casriga ah ee Bluesonde Technologies waxay dib uga fakaraysaa sida\u2026<\/p>","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":19700,"parent":164,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19687","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Bluesonde - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Seascale is revolutionizing aquaculture with the Maine Scallop Pot\u2122,gear designed to work seamlessly with existing lobster operations. With MTI support, they've manufactured 100 units and are helping Maine fishermen diversify without disruption."We're offering a solution-oriented approach that strengthens, not replaces, Maine's fishing identity" \u2014Charlie Walsh, Seascale Co-founder\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/bluesonde\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"so_SO\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Bluesonde - Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Seascale is revolutionizing aquaculture with the Maine Scallop Pot\u2122,gear designed to work seamlessly with existing lobster operations. 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firfircoon"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-35765058d01ca86fedea38abf7a30fb8\">Qalab firfircoon<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull overlay-section is-style-blue\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1017\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-1024x1017.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-19661\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-1024x1017.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-300x298.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-768x763.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-1536x1526.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-2048x2035.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_3646-WEB-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>Reporting is clear and manageable – something that\u2019s often a pain point with grants – but MTI strikes a great balance by keeping things streamlined while still maintaining strong oversight and due diligence. MTI is truly fantastic to work with!<\/p><cite>\u2013Katie Weiler, Founder & CEO, Viable Gear<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:38px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:59px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With almost 400 million metric tons of plastic produced annually, plastic pollution is a public health crisis. It is harming our oceans, wildlife, soils, and human health. Industries like fishing, aquaculture, and agriculture depend on plastic today, making them major contributors to the problem\u2014but they don\u2019t have to be. With better material alternatives, these same industries could help lead the transition away from plastic pollution.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Founded in 2021, <a href=\"https:\/\/viablegear.com\/pages\/about\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Qalab firfircoon<\/a> came up with a sustainable solution to help solve this problem and support these industries. \u201cViable Gear is addressing the global plastic pollution crisis at its source by replacing petroleum-based plastics with seaweed-based bioplastics that are safe for ocean, soil, and human health,\u201d said Founder & CEO Katie Weiler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Viable Gear gives people better options by offering sustainable technical gear to farmers on land and sea. Its innovative flagship product, SeaTwine, is a biodegradable bioplastic twine that breaks down into non-toxic compounds at the end of its lifespan.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Finding a Sustainable Solution  <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Growing up in Maine, the ocean was a big part of Weiler\u2019s childhood. In 2020, she noticed more plastic in the ocean- specifically near one of the uninhabited islands her family visits. After researching ways to solve this problem, she founded Viable Gear.  Fundamentally, Viable Gear\u2019s products would replace petroleum-based plastics with its novel, seaweed-based bioplastic alternative. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MTI\u2019s and Maine\u2019s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem\u2019s Impact <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maine-based programs such as Maine Technology Institute (MTI), The Seafood Sprint with Gulf of Maine Ventures, The Hatchery at New England Ocean Cluster, and SBIR enabled Viable Gear to reach key business milestones including product development, testing, and refinement without immediate revenue pressure. With funding support from MTI, the company successfully pilot tested SeaTwine with Maine farmers. The valuable feedback received from these pilots facilitated SeaTwine\u2019s current product design and development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"959\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1-959x1024.jpg\" alt=\"SeaTwine on bed seaweed\" class=\"wp-image-19631\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1-959x1024.jpg 959w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1-281x300.jpg 281w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1-768x820.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1-1438x1536.jpg 1438w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1-1918x2048.jpg 1918w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1-11x12.jpg 11w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A4016-WEB-1.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 959px) 100vw, 959px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group award-stats-col is-style-blue\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b1cdaeb85323a54924b4460c4fd93582\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">5<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7f619120c9dc00a6e1e5abab328270fe\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">pilot trials of SeaTwine completed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3b83ea70e3a6aa8d50eec5a0933c7bed\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">2<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a226163801b01839df6062efdc95b275\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">full-time staff hired since 2023<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6382312156db0c9c389e39e2ee342469\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">100%<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-22bfedc414405772a261b913e40120ee\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">compostable twine made from seaweed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:90px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"SeaTwine by Viable Gear\" class=\"wp-image-19618\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-8x12.jpg 8w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-JW1A3723-WEB-scaled.jpg 1707w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Impact on Marine Ecosystems, Wildlife, and Human Health <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To date, Viable Gear has conducted five pilot trials of SeaTwine with farmers across Maine including ones from Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA), University of Maine, and an independent farmer from Camden, Maine.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"> The company continues to grow its women-led team and has since hired two full-time staff members including Viable Gear\u2019s Co-founder & COO and Senior Materials Scientist. Scaling the company allows it to continue its meaningful impact in the environmental and sustainability industry. Viable Gear is giving people a choice they have never had before; a choice to use materials that are safer for people and the planet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Cleaner Future <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Viable Gear\u2019s long-term vision is to become a global leader in the next generation of durable and sustainable materials. \u201cDay to day we\u2019re a team of badass women moving forward a solution that has the potential to change the world for the better,\u201d Weiler said.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On their path to create a better future, the company will continue making products that work with the planet, not against it.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"826\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mirela-Headshot-WEB.jpg\" alt=\"Mirela Artner, Senior Material Scientist\" class=\"wp-image-19619\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mirela-Headshot-WEB.jpg 819w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mirela-Headshot-WEB-297x300.jpg 297w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mirela-Headshot-WEB-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mirela-Headshot-WEB-768x775.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mirela-Headshot-WEB-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"965\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/KW-Headshot-for-VG-2-WEB-1024x965.jpg\" alt=\"Katie Weiler, Founder & CEO Viable Gear\" class=\"wp-image-19620\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/KW-Headshot-for-VG-2-WEB-1024x965.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/KW-Headshot-for-VG-2-WEB-300x283.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/KW-Headshot-for-VG-2-WEB-768x723.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/KW-Headshot-for-VG-2-WEB-13x12.jpg 13w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/KW-Headshot-for-VG-2-WEB.jpg 1240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1015\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Emma-Headshot-2-WEB-1015x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Emma Lamb, Co-Founder & COO\" class=\"wp-image-19621\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Emma-Headshot-2-WEB-1015x1024.jpg 1015w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Emma-Headshot-2-WEB-297x300.jpg 297w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Emma-Headshot-2-WEB-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Emma-Headshot-2-WEB-768x775.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Emma-Headshot-2-WEB-12x12.jpg 12w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Emma-Headshot-2-WEB.jpg 1150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1015px) 100vw, 1015px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1920\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"In the Lab\" class=\"wp-image-19622\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_2680-WEB-16x12.jpg 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4231-WEB-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"SeaTwine supporting Tomato Plant\" class=\"wp-image-19623\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4231-WEB-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4231-WEB-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4231-WEB-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4231-WEB-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4231-WEB-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4231-WEB-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4211-WEB-1-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Garden tools\" class=\"wp-image-19628\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4211-WEB-1-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4211-WEB-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4211-WEB-1-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4211-WEB-1-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4211-WEB-1-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Copy-of-IMG_4211-WEB-1-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Viable Gear Thanks MTI!\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/eNf0QBXJv1w?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Warbixintu waa mid cad oo la maarayn karo - wax inta badan dhib badan ku ah deeqaha - laakiin MTI waxay si fiican u dheelitirtaa iyadoo wax walba la hagaajinayo iyadoo weli la ilaalinayo kormeer xooggan iyo dadaal habboon. MTI runtii waa wax aad u fiican in lala shaqeeyo! \u2013Katie Weiler, Aasaasaha & Maamulaha Guud, Qalabka Viable Iyada oo leh ku dhawaad 400 milyan oo tan oo mitir ah\u2026<\/p>","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":19617,"parent":164,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19608","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Viable Gear - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Viable Gear is tackling plastic pollution with seaweed-based bioplastics. 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Institute"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MaineTechnologyInstitute\/","http:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/companies\/maine-technology-institute","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/MaineTechInstitute"]}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19608","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19608"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19608\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/164"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19617"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19608"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":19454,"date":"2026-02-17T10:02:58","date_gmt":"2026-02-17T15:02:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/?page_id=19454"},"modified":"2026-05-20T11:24:38","modified_gmt":"2026-05-20T15:24:38","slug":"business-innovation-funding-get-started","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/explore-funding-programs\/business-innovation-funding\/business-innovation-funding-get-started\/","title":{"rendered":"Business Innovation Funding Get Started"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Business Innovation Funding: Get Started<\/strong><\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<script>\nvar gform;gform||(document.addEventListener(\"gform_main_scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.scriptsLoaded=!0}),document.addEventListener(\"gform\/theme\/scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0}),window.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",function(){gform.domLoaded=!0}),gform={domLoaded:!1,scriptsLoaded:!1,themeScriptsLoaded:!1,isFormEditor:()=>\"function\"==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(\"The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.\"),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(\"gform_main_scripts_loaded\",()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(\"gform\/theme\/scripts_loaded\",()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(\"action\",o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(\"filter\",o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(\"action\",o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(\"filter\",o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(\"action\",o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(\"filter\",o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+\"_\"+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){\"function\"!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),\"action\"==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),\"filter\"==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}});\n<\/script>\n\n <div class='gf_browser_gecko gform_wrapper gravity-theme gform-theme--no-framework' data-form-theme='gravity-theme' data-form-index='0' id='gform_wrapper_17' style='display:none'><div id='gf_17' class='gform_anchor' tabindex='-1'><\/div><form method='post' enctype='multipart\/form-data' id='gform_17' action='\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages#gf_17' data-formid='17' novalidate><input id=partial_entry_id_17 class=\"partial_entry_id\" type=hidden name=\"partial_entry_id\" value=\"pending\" data-form_id=\"17\"\/>\n <div class='gform-body gform_body'><div id='gform_page_17_1' class='gform_page ' data-js='page-field-id-0' >\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class='gform_page_fields'><div id='gform_fields_17' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_103\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-honeypot gform_validation_container field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_17_103'>Name<\/label><div class='ginput_container'><input name='input_103' id='input_17_103' type='text' value='' autocomplete='new-password'\/><\/div><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_103'>This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.<\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_17_92\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h2>Welcome to MTI’s Business Innovation Funding program. <\/h2>\n\n<\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_87\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Have you previously engaged with MTI about Business Innovation Funding?<\/legend><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_87'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_87_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_87' type='radio' value='I have previously received Business Innovation Funding from MTI' id='choice_17_87_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_87_0' id='label_17_87_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>I have previously received Business Innovation Funding from MTI<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_87_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_87' type='radio' value='I haven't received funding, but I've already spoken with an MTI Investment Officer about Business Innovation Funding for my business' id='choice_17_87_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_87_1' id='label_17_87_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>I haven’t received funding, but I’ve already spoken with an MTI Investment Officer about Business Innovation Funding for my business<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_87_2'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_87' type='radio' value='I've previously submitted an interest form but haven't spoken with an Investment Officer yet' id='choice_17_87_2' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_87_2' id='label_17_87_2' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>I’ve previously submitted an interest form but haven’t spoken with an Investment Officer yet<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_87_3'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_87' type='radio' value='This is my first time exploring Business Innovation Funding with MTI' id='choice_17_87_3' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_87_3' id='label_17_87_3' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>This is my first time exploring Business Innovation Funding with MTI<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_16' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_2' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-16' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_2' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_79\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h2>Welcome back! <\/h2>\n<p>Since you’ve already connected with MTI about Business Innovation Funding, you can go ahead and submit a new interest form. An MTI Investment Officer will follow up with you to discuss your project.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/bbgm-apply.yourcausegrants.com\/apply\/programs\/aeb15516-b90f-4698-8b77-07f01606adcb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Click here to submit an interest form<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_17_26\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h2>Contact Information<\/h2><\/div><div id=\"field_17_50\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-text gfield--input-type-text gfield--width-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_17_50'>Business Name<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_50' id='input_17_50' type='text' value='' class='large' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_17_24\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-email gfield--input-type-email gfield--width-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_17_24'>Email<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_email'>\n <input name='input_24' id='input_17_24' type='email' value='' class='large' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" \/>\n <\/div><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_22\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-name gfield--input-type-name gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label gfield_label_before_complex' >Contact Person<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='ginput_complex ginput_container ginput_container--name no_prefix has_first_name no_middle_name has_last_name no_suffix gf_name_has_2 ginput_container_name gform-grid-row' id='input_17_22'>\n \n <span id='input_17_22_3_container' class='name_first gform-grid-col gform-grid-col--size-auto' >\n <input type='text' name='input_22.3' id='input_17_22_3' value='' aria-required='true' \/>\n <label for='input_17_22_3' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-sub '>First<\/label>\n <\/span>\n \n <span id='input_17_22_6_container' class='name_last gform-grid-col gform-grid-col--size-auto' >\n <input type='text' name='input_22.6' id='input_17_22_6' value='' aria-required='true' \/>\n <label for='input_17_22_6' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-sub '>Last<\/label>\n <\/span>\n \n <\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_93\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-phone gfield--input-type-phone gfield--width-full field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_hidden\" ><div class=\"admin-hidden-markup\"><i class=\"gform-icon gform-icon--hidden\" aria-hidden=\"true\" title=\"This field is hidden when viewing the form\"><\/i><span>This field is hidden when viewing the form<\/span><\/div><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_17_93'>Phone<\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_phone'><input name='input_93' id='input_17_93' type='tel' value='' class='large' aria-invalid=\"false\" \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_17_91\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-select gfield--input-type-select gfield--width-full field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_hidden\" ><div class=\"admin-hidden-markup\"><i class=\"gform-icon gform-icon--hidden\" aria-hidden=\"true\" title=\"This field is hidden when viewing the form\"><\/i><span>This field is hidden when viewing the form<\/span><\/div><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_17_91'>County<\/label><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_91'>Please select your county or counties or select other if outside Maine.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_select'><select name='input_91' id='input_17_91' class='large gfield_select' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_91\" aria-invalid=\"false\" ><option value='Androscoggin' >Androscoggin<\/option><option value='Aroostook' >Aroostook<\/option><option value='Cumberland' >Cumberland<\/option><option value='Franklin' >Franklin<\/option><option value='Hancock' >Hancock<\/option><option value='Kennebec' >Kennebec<\/option><option value='Knox' >Knox<\/option><option value='Lincoln' >Lincoln<\/option><option value='Oxford' >Oxford<\/option><option value='Penobscot' >Penobscot<\/option><option value='Piscataquis' >Piscataquis<\/option><option value='Sagadahoc' >Sagadahoc<\/option><option value='Somerset' >Somerset<\/option><option value='Waldo' >Waldo<\/option><option value='Washington' >Washington<\/option><option value='York' >York<\/option><option value='Outside of Maine' >Outside of Maine<\/option><\/select><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_80' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_80' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_3' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-80' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_3' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_78\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3>Welcome! Please complete this self-assessment before connecting with an MTI Investment Officer.<\/h3>\n<p>This assessment will help you understand MTI’s criteria for Business Innovation Funding and prepare you for your initial conversation with our team. It should take about 10-15 minutes to complete.<p>\n\n<p>Typical first-time grants range from $10,000 to $30,000, though MTI may award more in particularly compelling cases. The cumulative grant limit per company is $100,000. Loans and equity occasionally available beyond this limit.<p>\n\n\n<p>A few important notes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>You can always talk with us, regardless of your result: <\/strong>Even if your results suggest you may not currently be a fit, you will still have the opportunity to connect with an MTI representative to discuss your results and next steps.<\/li>\n<li><strong>This will not be part of the funding decision: <\/strong>Your self-assessment results will not be held against you when being considered for funding. This assessment helps you understand our criteria, but MTI does not use them when evaluating a funding request.<\/li>\n<li><strong>This is not your application: <\/strong>The self-assessment is fully separate from the actual application for MTI support.<\/li>\n<\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_94' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_94' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_4' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-94' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_4' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_81\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h2>Basic Eligibility Check<\/h2>\n<p>To meet basic eligibility for Business Innovation Funding, you must meet ALL of the following criteria. Please select each criterion that applies to your organization. <strong>Users must select ALL of the following to fully qualify.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_7\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-checkbox gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-checkbox field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label gfield_label_before_complex' >Does your organization meet the basic eligibility requirements?<\/legend><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_checkbox'><div class='gfield_checkbox ' id='input_17_7'><div class='gchoice gchoice_17_7_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_7.1' type='checkbox' value='Maine-based' id='choice_17_7_1' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_7\"\/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_7_1' id='label_17_7_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'><strong>Maine-based with leadership presence:<\/strong> Registered with State of Maine Bureau of Corporations (by time funding is received), maintain a regular place of business in Maine, AND have at least one living in Maine full-time as a C-suite level W2 employee, OR a principal with significant equity ownership and an active leadership role*<\/label>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><div class='gchoice gchoice_17_7_2'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_7.2' type='checkbox' value='seven Targeted Technology Sectors' id='choice_17_7_2' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_7_2' id='label_17_7_2' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Organization OR innovation connected to one or more of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/about-mti\/technology-sectors\/\" target=\"_blank\">MTI’s seven Targeted Technology Sectors<\/a><\/label>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><div class='gchoice gchoice_17_7_3'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_7.3' type='checkbox' value='matching funds' id='choice_17_7_3' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_7_3' id='label_17_7_3' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Matching funds equal to or greater than MTI funding amount requested (sweat equity accepted for smaller requests)<\/label>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_7'>*Note: Planning-to-relocate: funding not awarded until substantial progress made. Maine accelerator\/university participants: eligibility at MTI’s discretion. Contractors, consultants, non-executive employees do not satisfy requirement.<\/div><\/fieldset><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_76' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_76' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_5' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-76' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_5' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_15\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h2>Great, you meet the initial criteria! Continue with the assessment to see if you’re a fit for Business Innovation Funding by clicking next.<\/h2><\/div><div id=\"field_17_10\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h2>You don’t currently meet the basic eligibility requirements for Business Innovation Funding.<\/h2>\n<p>\nBased on your selections, here’s what you’ll need to address before applying for MTI funding:<\/p>\n\n<\/div><div id=\"field_17_82\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Maine-Based Organization: You must be registered with the State of Maine’s Bureau of Corporations or have plans to relocate to Maine before funding can be awarded. \n\nMaine Operations: You must be predominantly based in Maine or have plans to establish Maine operations. \n<\/div><div id=\"field_17_84\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Technology Sector Alignment: Your organization or innovation must connect to one or more of MTI’s seven Targeted Technology Sectors. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/about-mti\/technology-sectors\/\" target=\"_blank\">Visit MTI’s Technology Sectors page to learn more about qualifying sectors<\/a>.<\/div><div id=\"field_17_85\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Matching Funds: You must have matching funds equal to or greater than the MTI funding amount requested. For smaller requests, MTI may accept a portion of the match as sweat equity. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/MTI-matching-policy-and-guidance.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Visit MTI’s Matching Funds Policy to learn more about matching requirements<\/a>. \n<\/div><div id=\"field_17_95\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3>Next Steps:<\/h3><p> Although you don’t currently meet the basic eligibility requirements, you can continue with the assessment to get feedback on the rest of MTI’s criteria so you understand what else MTI looks for by clicking the Next button below. If you don’t wish to continue the assessment, you can, use the navigation above to explore the MTI website.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_27' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_27' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_6' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-27' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_6' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_8\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-section gfield--input-type-section gsection field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3 class=\"gsection_title\">Innovation & Value Proposition<\/h3><div class='gsection_description' id='gfield_description_17_8'><p>MTI’s focus is supporting the research, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies that empower Maine businesses to scale and generate economic impact in Maine. MTI funds innovations that:<\/p>\n <ul>\n <li><strong>Drive scaling and significant Maine economic impact <\/strong>that the company could not achieve without them<\/li>\n <li><strong>Create a competitive advantage<\/strong> by being substantially different from existing alternatives<\/li>\n <li><strong>Have a credible path to defending that advantage<\/strong> against competitors over time<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <p>The innovation may originate from the company’s own work or from legitimately acquired technology (such as university research or licensed IP), provided it has not already been commercialized and the company is doing meaningful work to bring it to market. Technology that has been commercialized elsewhere may still qualify where the company is doing substantial engineering to adapt it to a materially new application or sector, beyond deploying it as-is in a new market.<\/p>\n <p>The strongest fits for MTI support are innovations that involve solving meaningful scientific or technical challenges. Non-technical innovations, such as business model innovations, meet MTI’s innovation standard when the applicant demonstrates compelling evidence of defensibility and barriers to entry, validated customer demand, and significant market opportunity. Because these innovations do not have the protection that technical complexity provides, the evidence on each must be stronger.<\/p>\n <p><strong>The following are very rarely a sufficient basis for an innovation argument on their own.<\/strong> For them to be considered as a core basis of the innovation argument, the applicant must present a compelling and credible case that the business has a defensible competitive advantage and a clear path to scale the business and generate significant economic impact in Maine.<\/p>\n <ul>\n <li><strong>Off-the-shelf technology:<\/strong> Purchasing or deploying off-the-shelf equipment, software, or technology<\/li>\n <li><strong>AI wrapper applications:<\/strong> Building on existing AI models without solving technical challenges beyond prompt engineering\n <\/li>\n <li><strong>Combining or repackaging:<\/strong> Existing ingredients, components, technologies, or formulations – unless the combination required solving a genuine technical challenge that substantially differentiates the result<\/li>\n <li><strong>Incremental improvements:<\/strong> To existing business practices<\/li>\n <li><strong>Geographic novelty:<\/strong> Being the first to offer an existing product or service in a region<\/li>\n <li><strong>Creative works:<\/strong> Creating content, media, video games, or other creative works. Companies developing genuinely new creative technology such as a novel engine or development tool are evaluated on that technical work, not the creative output.<\/li>\n <li ><strong>Relationships, location, pricing, or branding alone:<\/strong> Competitive advantages based solely on relationships, geographic proximity, pricing strategy, or branding <\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <p><em>This standard reflects how MTI generally evaluates innovation, not a rigid test. MTI weighs each application as a whole and retains discretion to apply the standard with judgment in exceptional cases.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_9\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Based on the Innovation Standard described, does your innovation meet MTI's criteria?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_9'>Consider whether your innovation involves solving meaningful challenges – technical, scientific, or otherwise – that result in something substantially different from existing alternatives. Review the list of what does not meet MTI’s standard to confirm your project goes beyond those elements.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_9'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_9_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_9' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_9_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_9\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_9_0' id='label_17_9_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_9_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_9' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_9_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_9_1' id='label_17_9_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_14\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Review MTI’s Innovation Standard above to understand what qualifies. If your project falls into one of the categories that does not meet the standard, it may not be a fit for MTI funding. If your innovation is non-technical, you will need to demonstrate particularly compelling evidence of defensibility, validated customer demand, and significant market opportunity.<\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_88\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Will your project involve substantial work beyond purchasing, configuring, or deploying existing platforms, software, or equipment?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_88'>MTI funding is not intended for the purchase or deployment of existing platforms, software, or equipment. The exception is when deployment requires significant additional development work, such as building proprietary methods on top of existing platforms or extending technologies in ways that go beyond standard use.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_88'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_88_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_88' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_88_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_88\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_88_0' id='label_17_88_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_88_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_88' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_88_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_88_1' id='label_17_88_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_89\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Projects that primarily involve acquiring or configuring existing technology – without substantial work to develop something new – typically do not meet MTI’s innovation standard. If you believe your project involves substantial development work, be prepared to describe it specifically when speaking with an Investment Officer.<\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_96\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Have you started thinking about who you're competing with and what would make your approach hard for others to copy?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_96'>MTI doesn’t expect a complete competitive analysis at early stages. Applicants should be able to identify likely competitors and articulate at least initial thoughts on what would make their approach hard to copy – whether through technical know-how, patents, exclusive partnerships, deep customer relationships, or being significantly ahead in development. This becomes increasingly important as a company scales. Non-technical innovations especially need clear answers here.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_96'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_96_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_96' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_96_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_96\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_96_0' id='label_17_96_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_96_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_96' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_96_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_96_1' id='label_17_96_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_97\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Understanding your competitors and what makes your approach hard to copy becomes increasingly important as your company scales. The resources below can help with competitive research and positioning.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainesbdc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Maine SBDC<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.score.org\/centralmaine\" target=\"_blank\">SCORE Maine<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_19' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_19' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_7' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-19' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_7' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_11\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-section gfield--input-type-section gsection field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3 class=\"gsection_title\">Validation & Development<\/h3><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_12\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Have you talked with potential customers outside your immediate network to confirm there's real demand, or do you have early sales or signed interest?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_12'>MTI looks for evidence of customer discovery in every application, even from early-stage applicants without a prototype. This typically means real conversations with people in your target market about the problem you’re solving – including how they currently handle it, what they’ve tried, and whether they’d find your approach valuable. Conversations with potential customers, surveys, letters of intent, pilot agreements, or early sales all count.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_12'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_12_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_12' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_12_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_12\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_12_0' id='label_17_12_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_12_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_12' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_12_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_12_1' id='label_17_12_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_13\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >MTI applications need evidence of customer discovery. The resources below can help if you’re getting started.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainesbdc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Maine SBDC<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.score.org\/centralmaine\" target=\"_blank\">SCORE Maine<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li><\/ul><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_98\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Can you demonstrate your solution's feasibility through a prototype, pilot, proof of concept, or development plan?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_98'>Early MTI funding can support the creation of a prototype or minimum viable product, so a working version isn’t required yet. Applicants need a clear plan: a way to show the concept is technically viable, and a description of the work the team will do to build it – not just the tools they’ll acquire to enable that work.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_98'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_98_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_98' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_98_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_98\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_98_0' id='label_17_98_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_98_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_98' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_98_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_98_1' id='label_17_98_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_99\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >MTI applications need evidence of customer discovery. The resources below can help if you’re getting started.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/umaine.edu\/amc\/\" target=\"_blank\">UMaine Advanced Manufacturing Center<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/explore-funding-programs\/maine-entrepreneurial-resource-corps-merc\/\" target=\"_blank\">MTI MERC<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/brunswicklanding.us\/techplace-maines-technology-incubator\/\" target=\"_blank\">TechPlace<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_52' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_52' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_8' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-52' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_8' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_53\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-section gfield--input-type-section gsection field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3 class=\"gsection_title\">Technical Expertise<\/h3><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_34\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Does your team have the technical expertise needed to develop your innovation?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_34'>This expertise can come from founders, employees, contractors, or engaged advisors. If the founders do not have technical expertise, an applicant should be able to describe how they are accessing the necessary technical competencies in other ways.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_34'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_34_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_34' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_34_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_34\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_34_0' id='label_17_34_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_34_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_34' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_34_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_34_1' id='label_17_34_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_35\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Your application will need to show how your team has access to the technical skills required for your project. The resources below can help with finding technical expertise in Maine.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/umaine.edu\/amc\/\" target=\"_blank\">UMaine Advanced Manufacturing Center<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/explore-funding-programs\/maine-entrepreneurial-resource-corps-merc\/\" target=\"_blank\">MTI MERC<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/brunswicklanding.us\/techplace-maines-technology-incubator\/\" target=\"_blank\">TechPlace<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_100\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Does your team have the business skills needed to bring your innovation to market – including areas like sales, marketing, finance, and operations?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_100'>Gaps in business skills can be addressed through advisors or mentors.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_100'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_100_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_100' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_100_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_100\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_100_0' id='label_17_100_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_100_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_100' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_100_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_100_1' id='label_17_100_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_101\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >MTI applications need to show your team has access to the business skills required to bring your innovation to market. The resources below offer mentorship and advisory support.<\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_20' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_20' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_9' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-20' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_9' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_32\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-section gfield--input-type-section gsection field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3 class=\"gsection_title\">Business Model & Funding<\/h3><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_55\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Do you have a clear vision for how your business will make money and grow?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_55'>MTI doesn’t require detailed financial projections at this stage. Applicants should be able to articulate a basic business model and path to revenue.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_55'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_55_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_55' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_55_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_55\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_55_0' id='label_17_55_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_55_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_55' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_55_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_55_1' id='label_17_55_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_56\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >MTI applications need a clear business model showing how your innovation becomes a sustainable business. The resources below can help with that work.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"#\" target=\"_blank\">Business Model Canvas<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainesbdc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Maine SBDC<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.score.org\/centralmaine\" target=\"_blank\">SCORE Maine<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_57\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Do you have a plan for how you'll fund your business beyond MTI support?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_57'>MTI funding is meant to help applicants reach specific milestones, not sustain a business indefinitely. Funding commitments aren’t required at this stage, but applications should identify potential sources of future capital (revenue, grants, investment, loans, etc.).\n<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_57'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_57_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_57' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_57_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_57\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_57_0' id='label_17_57_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_57_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_57' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_57_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_57_1' id='label_17_57_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_58\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Your application will need a basic funding strategy that identifies potential sources of future capital and general timing. MTI funding is meant to help applicants reach the next milestone, not sustain a business indefinitely.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ceimaine.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Coastal Enterprises Inc. (CEI)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.famemaine.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Finance Authority of Maine (FAME)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_54' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_54' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_10' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-54' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_10' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_51\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-section gfield--input-type-section gsection field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3 class=\"gsection_title\">Project Scope<\/h3><div class='gsection_description' id='gfield_description_17_51'>MTI funds specific projects, not general operations. Your project should have clear goals, a defined timeline, and measurable outcomes.\n<h4>What makes a strong MTI project<\/h4>\n<ul><li>A focused scope. MTI-supported projects can be anywhere from a few weeks to a year and a half.<\/li>\n<li>Clear connection between activities and business outcomes<\/li>\n<li>Specific, measurable deliverables<\/li>\n<li>A realistic budget tied to project activities<\/li>\n<li>Outcomes that position you for the next stage of growth<\/li>\n<\/div><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_61\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Will the MTI funds directly support development of a new or innovative product, service, or method?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_61'>MTI funds development and commercialization activities, not general business operations or routine business expenses.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_61'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_61_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_61' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_61_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_61\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_61_0' id='label_17_61_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_61_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_61' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_61_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_61_1' id='label_17_61_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_62\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >MTI funding is specifically for innovation development and commercialization activities. If your primary need is for general business operations, other funding sources may be more appropriate.\n<\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_63\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Can you describe specific things your project will accomplish, with realistic timeframes for each?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_63'>MTI funds projects with specific, measurable deliverables. Examples include completing a prototype, achieving specific technical milestones, securing pilot customers, or reaching defined market validation goals. Each deliverable should have a clear timeline and concrete way to measure success. Your MTI Investment Officer will help you determine an appropriate project.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_63'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_63_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_63' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_63_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_63\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_63_0' id='label_17_63_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_63_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_63' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_63_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_63_1' id='label_17_63_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_64\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >MTI applications need specific, measurable deliverables tied to a project timeline. The resources below can help you structure your project into clear milestones.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainesbdc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Maine SBDC<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.score.org\/centralmaine\" target=\"_blank\">SCORE Maine<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_44' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_44' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_11' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-44' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_11' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_68\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-section gfield--input-type-section gsection field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3 class=\"gsection_title\">Maine Impact<\/h3><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_69\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Does your company have a long-term commitment to growing operations in Maine?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_69'>MTI supports businesses that are seeking to grow their presence in Maine and create additional economic impact. Quality job creation is a key metric, but MTI also considers economic impact like revenue growth, attraction of capital, development of facilities, and other postitive impacts to Maine people.<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_69'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_69_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_69' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_69_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_69\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_69_0' id='label_17_69_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_69_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_69' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_69_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_69_1' id='label_17_69_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_70\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >MTI prioritizes companies committed to growing in Maine. Your application will need to show how your business plans build a presence in the state. The resources below can help.\n\n<p>Helpful Resources:<\/p><ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mainesbdc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Maine SBDC<\/a> – Free business mentoring services<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mced.biz\/\" target=\"_blank\">Maine Center for Entrepreneurs<\/a> – Programs to help founders<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><fieldset id=\"field_17_71\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-radio gfield--type-choice gfield--input-type-radio gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><legend class='gfield_label gform-field-label' >Over the next few years, do you project that your business will create quality jobs in Maine?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/legend><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_17_71'>An applicant to MTI should be able to articulate the business’s projections for creating quality jobs over the next few years. This doesn’t mean immediate hiring, but applicants should be able to describe how the project’s success will lead to Maine-based employment over time. “Quality jobs” typically means competitive wages and benefits.\n<\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_radio'><div class='gfield_radio' id='input_17_71'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_71_0'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_71' type='radio' value='Yes' id='choice_17_71_0' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_17_71\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_71_0' id='label_17_71_0' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>Yes<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class='gchoice gchoice_17_71_1'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class='gfield-choice-input' name='input_71' type='radio' value='No' id='choice_17_71_1' onchange='gformToggleRadioOther( this )' \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for='choice_17_71_1' id='label_17_71_1' class='gform-field-label gform-field-label--type-inline'>No<\/label>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/fieldset><div id=\"field_17_72\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full no-fit gfield_html gfield_html_formatted field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Job creation is part of MTI’s mission. Your application will need to describe how your project’s success leads to Maine-based employment, even if hiring isn’t immediate.<\/div><\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div class='gform-page-footer gform_page_footer top_label'>\n <input type='button' id='gform_previous_button_17_67' class='gform_previous_button gform-theme-button gform-theme-button--secondary button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='previous' value='Previous' \/> <input type='button' id='gform_next_button_17_67' class='gform_next_button gform-theme-button button' onclick='gform.submission.handleButtonClick(this);' data-submission-type='next' value='Next' \/> \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <div id='gform_page_17_12' class='gform_page' data-js='page-field-id-67' style='display:none;'>\n <div class='gform_page_fields'>\n <div id='gform_fields_17_12' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_17_102\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-section gfield--input-type-section gsection field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h3 class=\"gsection_title\">Results<\/h3><\/div><div id=\"field_17_46\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" >Good news! The answers you provided indicate that your project may be a fit for the Business Innovation Funding program. Generally speaking, first-time applicants to MTI typically start with smaller funding requests and then use their initial project success to make a stronger case for additional funding.\nPlease note: This assessment provides an initial indication of fit, but final eligibility and funding decisions will be made by MTI Investment Officers during the application review process. If you\u2019d like to find out more and talk with an MTI team member, please submit an interest form to get started.\n<h2>Ready to take the next step?<\/h2>\nBased on your responses, your project may be a fit for Business Innovation Funding. Submit an interest form now to connect with an MTI Investment Officer who will discuss your application.\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/bbgm-apply.yourcausegrants.com\/apply\/programs\/aeb15516-b90f-4698-8b77-07f01606adcb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Click here to submit an interest form<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\nNot ready to submit yet? Click below to have a link to the interest form emailed to you for later.<\/div><div id=\"field_17_47\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-html gfield--input-type-html gfield--width-full gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><h2>See feedback on what you can do to improve your fit for Business Innovation Funding<\/h2>\n<p>Sorry, you may not be a good fit for Business Innovation Funding right now. Based on your answers, we’ve put together recommendations on what you’d need to do to be a better fit. 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class=\"wp-block-heading has-dark-green-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-393888b0617cd8d55dc84621df88f44e\">HighByte<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull overlay-section is-style-green\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"789\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSP-HighByte-Headshots-166-WEB-789x1024.jpg\" alt=\"From left to right, these photos include John Harrington, Torey Penrod-Cambra, and Tony Paine who together founded HighByte in 2018. \" class=\"wp-image-19394\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSP-HighByte-Headshots-166-WEB-789x1024.jpg 789w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSP-HighByte-Headshots-166-WEB-231x300.jpg 231w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSP-HighByte-Headshots-166-WEB-768x996.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSP-HighByte-Headshots-166-WEB-9x12.jpg 9w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSP-HighByte-Headshots-166-WEB.jpg 1067w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 789px) 100vw, 789px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p><strong>MTI is one of the friendliest investors that a Maine company can hope to work with.<\/strong><\/p><cite>\u2013Tony Paine, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, HighByte<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:38px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:89px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inside HighByte: Helping Manufacturers Make Sense of Their Data<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In many manufacturing environments, important data is spread across machines, systems, and software that don\u2019t easily work together. When teams can\u2019t see what\u2019s happening in real time, it becomes harder to prevent problems, keep operations running smoothly, and make confident decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Founded in 2018, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.highbyte.com\/\">HighByte<\/a> set out to help solve that problem. \u201cWe established HighByte to solve the persistent data operations, architecture, and integration problems faced by many of today\u2019s industrial and manufacturing organizations,\u201d said Co-Founder and CEO Tony Paine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At its core, HighByte helps industrial teams organize their data so it\u2019s accessible and usable. Its flagship product, HighByte Intelligence Hub, supports practical, everyday needs like predicting equipment issues before they cause downtime, monitoring energy use, ensuring product quality, and meeting regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Navigating Early Business Challenges<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HighByte began with a strong idea but limited resources. While the founders deferred their own salaries early on, finding money to support research and development was more difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cIt\u2019s very difficult to put a specific value on an idea in its early stages,\u201d Paine explained. Early access to funding allowed the team to test the concept, validate its usefulness, and begin building a product that addressed real-world needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:1px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6116-WEB-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"HighByte Employee welcoming party at HighByte Office\" class=\"wp-image-19397\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6116-WEB-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6116-WEB-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6116-WEB-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6116-WEB-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6116-WEB-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6116-WEB.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group award-stats-col is-style-green\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9e7fe9c3bcb0530e4ca6e4f55ffb8d08\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">$100,000+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8bffbc3c43b12ee50d9e384f39949a10\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">in grants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c2bc9d9e5bccbc9a446c0fa79d3ba841\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">$250,000<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-39cbfb8c20b5f6da5290b424cda8056f\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">Development loan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7da865d07b7e338541f6eb2f1a92a551\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">$150,000<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1026ff27b6cb2504ce96eb5de7689652\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">Sinnaanta<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2108668a34356b85de1cb489a9166456\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">0 to 90+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-eebd8428742e62f7ad72cb8fbb0fb336\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">customer growth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9b3cd4a1a1e15493563306ac5fbe1269\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">1,656%<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9c4aec991cea74912d8f8e0611ab5a7e\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">company growth from 2021 to 2024<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-aedd492e4406a4d110c11245c00da16c\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">4<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1bd13ccd55888eb8eb2fe27db3da969e\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">workplace recognition awards<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-eefe9caff62b520d3ed559235d76d135\" style=\"color:#ffffff\">ISO 27001 certified<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Building Momentum and Scale<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since its first product launch, HighByte has grown steadily. \u201cWe have grown our customer base from zero to more than 90 organizations, spanning over 24 countries and 20 segments within the industrial space,\u201d Paine said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today, most of HighByte\u2019s customers are large multinational companies operating complex industrial environments. The company has expanded its team to 42 full-time employees and earned national recognition for its rapid growth, workplace culture, and leadership in industrial technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How MTI Helped Move the Company Forward<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maine Technology Institute played a key role in HighByte\u2019s development and continued progress. \u201cMTI provided early grants during the ideation stage of the business, shared a friendly development loan to enable the recruitment of R&D resources, and later participated in an early equity round,\u201d Paine said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond funding, the relationship became a long-term partnership. \u201cMTI has an observer presence on our board and has been a great partner to brainstorm with and help unlock other sources of capital within the state of Maine.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Supporting the People Behind Industrial Operations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While HighByte\u2019s work is deeply technical, the people running facilities day-to-day feel its impact the most. \u201cThis helps reduce the complicated planning and installation processes often associated with updating data infrastructure and makes the responsibilities of facility operators less daunting,\u201d Paine said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once implemented, HighByte\u2019s software gives teams faster access to relevant information, helping them respond more effectively and keep operations on track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s Next<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HighByte\u2019s long-term vision centers on making data easier to use across the industrial world. \u201cOur ultimate long-term goal is to make Industrial DataOps not just accessible but standard across the industrial and manufacturing industries,\u201d Paine said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the company looks ahead, it continues to refine its technology, respond to customer needs, and explore how data systems and emerging tools can work together to support more efficient, sustainable industrial operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6140-WEB-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"HighByte employees mingling\" class=\"wp-image-19398\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6140-WEB-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6140-WEB-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6140-WEB-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6140-WEB-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6140-WEB-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6140-WEB.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6246-WEB-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"HighByte employees on office space roof\" class=\"wp-image-19399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6246-WEB-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6246-WEB-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6246-WEB-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6246-WEB-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6246-WEB-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/IMG_6246-WEB.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"HighByte thanks MTI!\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Da0tK06eJhc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MTI waa mid ka mid ah maalgashadayaasha ugu saaxiibka badan ee shirkad Maine ah ay rajeyn karto inay la shaqeyso. \u2013Tony Paine, Aasaasaha Wadajirka ah & Madaxa Fulinta, HighByte Gudaha HighByte: Ka caawinta Soo-saareyaasha inay fahmaan Xogtooda Deegaanno badan oo wax-soo-saar ah, xogta muhiimka ah waxaa lagu faafiyaa mashiinno, nidaamyo, iyo barnaamijyo aan si fudud u wada shaqeyn karin. Marka kooxuhu aysan\u2026<\/p>","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":19417,"parent":164,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19392","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>HighByte - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Manufacturing companies generate enormous amounts of data\u2014but turning that information into clear, usable insight isn\u2019t always easy. Founded in 2018, HighByte helps industrial teams make sense of data from across their facilities so they can prevent problems, improve efficiency, and make better decisions in real time.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/highbyte\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"so_SO\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"HighByte - Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Manufacturing companies generate enormous amounts of data\u2014but turning that information into clear, usable insight isn\u2019t always easy. Founded in 2018, HighByte helps industrial teams make sense of data from across their facilities so they can prevent problems, improve efficiency, and make better decisions in real time.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/impact\/innovator-spotlight\/highbyte\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Maine Technology Institute\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MaineTechnologyInstitute\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-02-17T21:12:43+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/HighByte-FeaturedImage.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"670\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"4 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/impact\\\/innovator-spotlight\\\/highbyte\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/impact\\\/innovator-spotlight\\\/highbyte\\\/\",\"name\":\"HighByte - Maine Technology Institute\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/impact\\\/innovator-spotlight\\\/highbyte\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/impact\\\/innovator-spotlight\\\/highbyte\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.mainetechnology.org\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/HighByte-FeaturedImage.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-11T18:55:20+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-17T21:12:43+00:00\",\"description\":\"Manufacturing companies generate enormous amounts of data\u2014but turning that information into clear, usable insight isn\u2019t always easy. 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These opportunities are offered at the discretion of the provider and are intended to support early-stage growth.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-20-transparent has-blue-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Partners.svg\" alt=\"MTI Partner Companies\" class=\"wp-image-18931\" style=\"width:170px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"148\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/images.png\" alt=\"Carta logo\" class=\"wp-image-19341\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/images.png 340w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/images-300x131.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/images-18x8.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Carta<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Receive a 20% first-year discount and waived implementation fees toward the Carta subscription by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.carta.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">signing up here<\/a> or getting in touch directly with the Carta Partnerships team at <a href=\"mailto:partners@carta.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">partners@carta.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1162\" height=\"652\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/CIVA-Logo.png\" alt=\"CIVA logo\" class=\"wp-image-19435\" style=\"width:255px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/CIVA-Logo.png 1162w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/CIVA-Logo-300x168.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/CIVA-Logo-1024x575.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/CIVA-Logo-768x431.png 768w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/CIVA-Logo-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1162px) 100vw, 1162px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CIVA<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The National Health Access Network is a 12-month executive coalition that gives health and community leaders clear, low-noise federal health intelligence and a structured way to surface state-level access barriers into a National Health Access Index that is shared with federal decision makers. Participants receive curated federal health briefings, access to a moderated Google Group for peer learning, monthly conversations with federal program managers, and bi-weekly capacity-building sessions on funding strategy, grant readiness, and partnership development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This offer is designed for director-level and above leaders at health-focused companies, nonprofits, rural health organizations, and university or health-system community partnership teams that want clearer federal signals.<br><br>Join the National Health Access Network and stay connected to trusted federal health insights\u2014<a href=\"https:\/\/groups.google.com\/a\/civa.app\/g\/health-access-network?pli=1\">sign up for the Google Group here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"171\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Branding-Compass-r-logo-600.png\" alt=\"Branding Compass Logo\" class=\"wp-image-19468\" style=\"width:260px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Branding-Compass-r-logo-600.png 600w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Branding-Compass-r-logo-600-300x86.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Branding-Compass-r-logo-600-18x5.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Branding Compass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Save $5 on a Branding Compass license! Branding Compass helps you quickly discover the best visuals and words for your branding and marketing. Answer questions about your business, and receive expert advice on how to build your brand. Clarify what makes you special. Create a highly visual ideal client profile and get help writing key messages for your website. It’s fast, insightful, and built by award-winning branding experts.<br><br>Email <a href=\"mailto:info@brandingcompass.com\">info@brandingcompass.com<\/a> for your discount code.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"282\" height=\"79\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/HubSpot_Logo-Sep-02-2025-12-36-31-8668-AM.webp\" alt=\"Hubspot logo\" class=\"wp-image-19342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/HubSpot_Logo-Sep-02-2025-12-36-31-8668-AM.webp 282w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/HubSpot_Logo-Sep-02-2025-12-36-31-8668-AM-18x5.webp 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 282px) 100vw, 282px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hubspot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Hubspot Partner Program offers eligible startups up to a 90% discount on HubSpot software. One service or the entire suite of the Hubspot Growth. The platform can be used with a free-forever CRM at a startup-friendly price. FMI <a href=\"http:\/\/www.hubspot.com\/startups\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visit the Hubspot website for more information or to sign up<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"199\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Nkenne-Ai-01-2.275140c7fb0541ff0.png\" alt=\"NKENNEAi Logo\" class=\"wp-image-19216\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Nkenne-Ai-01-2.275140c7fb0541ff0.png 750w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Nkenne-Ai-01-2.275140c7fb0541ff0-300x80.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Nkenne-Ai-01-2.275140c7fb0541ff0-18x5.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NKENNEAi<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>NKENNEAi<\/strong> offers MTI portfolio companies access to a tonally sensitive African language translation API designed for accurate website, platform, and backend translations. Unlike traditional tools, NKENNEAi preserves tonal and dialectal nuance critical to many African languages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As an MTI partner benefit, companies receive <strong>500 free API tokens per month for two months<\/strong> (1,000 total) to test the platform in real-world use cases. After the trial, companies may continue at a <strong>discounted MTI partner rate<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">View the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yDDmXxWXgdA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>NKENNEAi Customer Journey<\/strong><\/a> for a short onboarding walkthrough. Learn more at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nkenne.ai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>NKENNEAi<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To activate your free tokens, email <a href=\"mailto:support@nkenne.ai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>support@nkenne.ai<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Submit a Partner Offer<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MTI partners and portfolio companies may submit offers they would like to make available to eligible MTI portfolio companies. Submitted offers are reviewed to ensure alignment with MTI guidelines and are listed for a limited time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <div class='gf_browser_gecko gform_wrapper gravity-theme gform-theme--no-framework' data-form-theme='gravity-theme' data-form-index='0' id='gform_wrapper_15' ><form method='post' enctype='multipart\/form-data' id='gform_15' action='\/so\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages' data-formid='15' novalidate>\n <div class='gform-body gform_body'><div id='gform_fields_15' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below validation_below'><div id=\"field_15_10\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-text gfield--input-type-text gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--has-description field_description_above field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_15_10'>What is your connection to MTI?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description_15_10'>Only MTI partners and portfolio companies may submit offers. <\/div><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_10' id='input_15_10' type='text' value='' class='large' aria-describedby=\"gfield_description_15_10\" aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" \/><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_15_1\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-textarea gfield--input-type-textarea gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_15_1'>What is the service\/product you seek to offer MTI portfolio companies and ecosystem partners, and for what period of time?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_textarea'><textarea name='input_1' id='input_15_1' class='textarea small' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" rows='10' cols='50'><\/textarea><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_15_3\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-textarea gfield--input-type-textarea gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_15_3'>How will this benefit your company, and how do you think it will benefit MTI portfolio companies and ecosystem partners?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_textarea'><textarea name='input_3' id='input_15_3' class='textarea small' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" rows='10' cols='50'><\/textarea><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_15_4\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-textarea gfield--input-type-textarea gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_15_4'>What are your specific asks of MTI to get the discount launched?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_textarea'><textarea name='input_4' id='input_15_4' class='textarea small' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" rows='10' cols='50'><\/textarea><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_15_5\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-textarea gfield--input-type-textarea gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_15_5'>Do you have a method of tracking the success of the program?<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_textarea'><textarea name='input_5' id='input_15_5' class='textarea small' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" rows='10' cols='50'><\/textarea><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_15_8\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-textarea gfield--input-type-textarea gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_15_8'>Please describe your offer as you want it to appear on MTI's partner\/discount page<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_textarea'><textarea name='input_8' id='input_15_8' class='textarea small' maxlength='800' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" rows='10' cols='50'><\/textarea><\/div><\/div><div id=\"field_15_9\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-text gfield--input-type-text gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below gfield--no-description field_description_below field_validation_below gfield_visibility_visible\" ><label class='gfield_label gform-field-label' for='input_15_9'>Please provide an email, link or contact information for those who want to take advantage of your offer<span class=\"gfield_required\"><span class=\"gfield_required gfield_required_text\">(Required)<\/span><\/span><\/label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_9' id='input_15_9' type='text' value='' class='large' aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" \/><\/div><\/div><fieldset id=\"field_15_6\" class=\"gfield gfield--type-name gfield--input-type-name gfield--width-full gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below 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Carta Receive a 20% first-year discount and waived…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"parent":20,"menu_order":9,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19333","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Partner Discounts & Benefits - Maine Technology Institute<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore Maine Technology Institute's strategic partnerships with leading service providers like HubSpot and Carta, offering exclusive discounts to MTI portfolio companies.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mainetechnology.org\/so\/about-mti\/partner-discounts-benefits\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"so_SO\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Partner Discounts & Benefits - 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