University of Maine

New startup funding routes in Maine include a venture capital firm aiming to close its first two investments this month; a venture studio that’s tapping academic talent to get new businesses off the ground; and a revenue-based debt instrument for growth capital.

Scarborough-based Landry/French Construction has begun the first phase of a $7 million renovation to the University of Maine’s Maine Center on Custom House Street in Portland.

Since 2011, the Local Catch Network has helped over 70 community-based seafood businesses across New England, Florida, Alaska, California and Puerto Rico.

Farm-level weather stations could help growers decide when to irrigate, spray and protect against frost. “That improves yields, decreases inputs and saves time during the most stressful parts of the season,” said the project lead.

Lobster reproduction and growth in changing environmental conditions and potential effects of offshore energy installations on seafloor habitats are among topics to be studied.

Propelling overall enrollment growth is a 40% year-over-year increase in the number of University of Maine at Presque Isle students taking advantage of the YourPace online degree and certificate programs.

A timeline has not yet been set for the project, touted as a "catalyst" for the Orono school and the future of health care in Maine.

UMaine is well positioned to start a public medical school, but $250 million in startup costs plus tens of millions for operations mean the project is not financially feasible.

Maine technology and innovation were front and center throughout the year. Here's a collection of story highlights from 2025.

As we wind down the year, here are memorable quotes from a dozen interviews published by Mainebiz in 2025.