Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences

The recent wave of expansions demonstrates that Maine’s life sciences sector is not only growing, but putting down long-term roots.

Co-hosted by Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences and Hatch Blue, with support from the Maine Technology Institute, the event is designed to accelerate the translation of ocean research into commercial opportunities.

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is an East Boothbay nonprofit research institute focused on global ocean health.

More than $1.65 million was allotted for national security, the blue economy, support for startups and digital jobs.

“The silver lining to the window collision problem is that it is easily within our ability to fix,” said a Maine Audubon representative.

Millions of federal dollars have been frozen from grant programs at research labs across the state, and the Univ. of Maine has had funding terminated from a number of programs. Some of the grant dollars have been restored, others are tied up in legal action.

Deborah Bronk, the lab’s president and CEO, called the new Harold Alfond Center for Ocean and Education “a launchpad for innovation and a new home for learning.” It is 25,000 square feet in size.

The Harold Alfond Center for Ocean Education and Innovation provides space to broaden business innovation, applied research and education programs and accommodate a growing staff.

In Maine, National Institutes of Health grants and contracts support 1,468 jobs and $286 million in economic activity. 

Mainebiz is honored to present the 2025 Mainebiz Business Leaders of the Year. These 10 individuals span various industries, including the nonprofit sector.