Mainebiz is honored to present the 2026 Business Leaders of the Year — seven outstanding individuals representing a range of industries, including the nonprofit sector.
From craft brewing and manufacturing to higher education, nonprofits and insurance, this year’s honorees are helping shape Maine and its economy and quality of life.
The Mainebiz team invites you to an awards reception on Tuesday, April 14, at Ocean Gateway in Portland, to celebrate and thank these leaders for their contributions to our state.
The 2026 Mainebiz Business Leaders of the Year
- Fred Forsley, founder of Shipyard Brewing.
- Kara Wilbur, founder and president of Dooryard.
- Jen Millard, founder of mainelove.
- Jacqueline Edmondson, president of the University of Southern Maine.
- Joseph Jackson, executive director of the Maine Prisoner Advocacy Coalition.
- Michael Bourque, president and CEO of MEMIC.
- Heather Paquette, president of Good Shepherd Food Bank.
