The sixth annual Mainebiz Next List arrives at a particularly dynamic time in the Maine economy, and so it was more important than ever that the 10 people selected represent the diversity of opportunities available in this changing world.
This year, as before, we looked for innovators in emerging industries as well as established ones, young thinkers as well as the young at heart, economic and business leaders driven as much by creativity as conventional success. The result is a group that highlights the texture of the state’s business world today — from farmers exploring modern niches, to a Main Street leader with a mission, to a businessman who only thinks globally. These Nexters lead the way in energy and policy innovation, recruitment and retention and just plain old bright ideas and follow-through. They’re Maine, today and tomorrow. — Sara Donnelly
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Local energy | Scott Cowger, Co-owner of the Maple Hill Farm Inn, Hallowell
Global guru | Perry Newman, Founder and director, Atlantica Group, Portland
Rules of attraction | Matt Jacobson, President and CEO, Maine & Co., Portland
Wisdom at work | Dave Tomm, President, Seasoned Workforce, Rockland
Downtown diva | Shannon Haines, Executive Director, Waterville Main Street, Waterville
Stage fight | Scott R.C. Levy, Producing Artistic Director, Penobscot Theatre Company, Bangor
