Andrea Cianchette Maker

FocusMaine, which is nearing the end of its planned 10-year run, sparked creation of more than 1,500 jobs.

Similar to rock stars taking breaks from touring and college graduates spending a “gap year” to travel or volunteer, a growing number of business and nonprofit leaders are giving themselves time-outs of a year or more to reset.

Forecasts run the gamut from the specter of a recession to a dose of practical optimism from a coffee entrepreneur.

Business leaders from around the state have varying expectations for the coming year.

From nuts-and-bolts networking tips to unscripted anecdotes and exchanges, panelists shared insights into the power of networks, collaboration and mentorship at Thursday's event.

The goal is to provide education around farmed seafood’s contributions to Maine and the regulations governing it.

FocusMaine is now focused on ramping up its work to increase collaboration in each industry.

FocusMaine added Kristen Miale, the former president of the Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine, and Amanda Rector, the state economist for Maine, to its board.

Until now, Maine was one of the few states on the East Coast without such a broad promotional group.

The panel is part of a four-part series called Maine Food Future, whose mission is to develop an "action plan for economic growth, workforce development, future readiness and enhanced equity in Maine’s food industry," FocusMaine said.