Economic Development

A photo of Caitlin Howell

NSF awards Howell $550K for microfluidics research and development with Sappi

University of Maine research in partnership with Sappi North America has received a $550,000 award from the National Science Foundation to explore how existing mass produced technologies can be used to study and scale up microfluidic technology. Microfluidics studies the behavior of certain fluids through microscopic channels. The movement can be used to learn more […]

Read more

Mainebiz, BDN highlight new Solutions for Maine R&D and Innovation Hub

Mainebiz and the Bangor Daily News highlighted the new Solutions for Maine R&D and Innovation Hub, based out of the University of Maine Foster Center for Innovation and run by UMaine’s Office of Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Resources and Engagement (SPIRE). Funded with $2.5 million from the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, the new hub features […]

Read more

A photo of Rob Dumas

New UMaine initiative will leverage talent and innovation to help state’s startups and small businesses respond to lingering pandemic challenges

With $2.5 million in Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan funding, the University of Maine has expanded programming and services to help stabilize and support small businesses and startups dealing with ongoing pandemic challenges that are hindering their growth. The Solutions for Maine R&D and Innovation Hub, based out of UMaine’s Foster Center for Innovation and […]

Read more

A photo of a student working in a research lab

UMaine showcases research and creativity during Maine Impact Week

Maine Impact Week, which celebrates the University of Maine faculty, students, community and their contributions to the social and economic advancement of the state and beyond, will be held from April 10–16. Over 20 in person and virtual events will occur throughout the week, all of which highlight the impact of research and creative work […]

Read more

NYT features cross-laminated timber research at UMaine

The New York Times featured University of Maine research into cross-laminated timber. Liam O’Brien, a UMaine graduate student, spoke with the Times about an effort by him and his colleagues to develop a cross-laminated timber panel insulated with wood fiber. “It is a material that should take off in the U.S. as long as we […]

Read more

A photo of Jason Entsminger

UMaine’s Entsminger leads USDA-funded study about rural communities’ needs

A national study published last week, led by a now University of Maine assistant professor and small business specialist, identifies critical investments needed to build community capacity and improve quality of life in rural America. Results showed a need to increase collaboration, inform decision making through research, involve local underrepresented groups and build climate and […]

Read more

‘The Maine Question’ looks at how Maine can grow and diversify its economy

Maine’s economy is evolving with several burgeoning industries, like artificial intelligence and alternative energy, and new opportunities in its quintessential natural resource sectors, such as commercial fishing and forestry. The University of Maine’s Office of Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Resources and Engagement, or SPIRE, is supporting statewide economic growth by connecting startups and expanding companies with […]

Read more

Innovate for Maine set to double cohort size in 2023

The University of Maine Foster Center for Innovation is seeking Maine students and Maine companies to participate in the 2023 Innovate for Maine Fellows internship program. The application deadline for students and companies is March 5. To apply or learn more about Innovate for Maine Fellows, visit the program website. This year, with funding for […]

Read more