Maine Community Bank

This year’s finalists in Maine Community Bank's annual competition include businesses in advanced manufacturing, canned water, parking technology, plant-based foods and in-home veterinary care.

A roundup of new hires, promotions and achievements at businesses, nonprofits, professional services firms and health care institutions in Maine.

NBT Bank, Verizon and Maine Community Bank will join Market Basket, InterMed and Cafe Luna as the newest businesses in the evolving 40-acre town center portion of the development.

This year’s grand prize was raised from $50,000 to $75,000, while the Emerging Business Award grant has been raised from $10,000 to $15,000. Applications are due by Thursday., Aug. 13, at 5:30 p.m.

A merchant services division will help businesses navigate increasingly complex commerce and technology needs.

Travis Hersom will oversee the bank’s IT strategy, including systems platforms and investments supporting operations and customer service.

This year’s grand prize has been raised to $75,000, while the Emerging Business Award grant will be $15,000, Maine Community Bank announced at Startup Maine Week.

Matt Early, senior vice president and director of commercial banking, has been named as chief commercial officer.

The annual event, held Thursday in Portland, offers insights into a range of sectors from construction to hospitality as well as on legislation that affects the real estate industry.

Think of legacy as maximizing the value of the business and keeping your future options open, our guest columnist writes. It comes from the decisions you make now, the structure you build and the clarity you bring to what you want the next chapter to look like.