Five Maine businesses make the cut for $75K LaunchPad final

Maine Community Bank is putting $75,000 on the line in this year’s LaunchPad business pitch contest, with five innovative companies competing for the biggest prize in the competition’s 13-year history. This year’s finalists, announced Friday, include businesses in advanced manufacturing, canned water, parking technology, plant-based foods and in-home veterinary care. They'll make their pitches live on stage Tuesday, Oct. 20, in Portland. Finalists include mainelove, a returning finalist from 2025, led by co-founder and CEO Jen Millard, who was honored as a Mainebiz Business Leader of the Year in 2026. (Scroll down for the full list.) Five additional companies will compete for a separate Emerging Business Award, which includes a $15,000 grant from the bank and $10,000 worth of in-kind business and marketing services. Maine Community Bank increased the top grant from $50,000 to $75,000 this year. “These businesses are proof that innovation can take root and thrive right here in Maine,” said Steve deCastro, president and CEO of Maine Community Bank. “By increasing the grant, we’re making a bigger investment in the talent that’s driving Maine’s entrepreneurial community forward. LaunchPad helps give these founders visibility and capital to turn ambition into action.” Finalists in the running for $75K Evergreen Additive, Brunswick Mainelove, Westbrook Park Thrive, Portland Veggie Life, Wells Vet at Your Door, Brunswick Each finalist will deliver a live pitch and answer questions from judges Kristine Delano, board director and author; Kate McAleer of Bixby Chocolate; and Peter DelGreco of Maine & Co. Emerging Business Award finalists Knotless Gear, Portland Kind Mind, Falmouth Latis Materials, Saco Savvyn, Cumberland Tubender, Portland The Emerging Business Award winner will be announced at the live event before the $75,000 grant recipient. Event information LaunchPad will take place Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the University of New England’s Innovation Hall in Portland. Networking begins at 4 p.m., followed by the competition at 5:15 p.m. Find out more and register at maine.bank/launchpad.