Susan Ruhlin

Susan Ruhlin, former director of the Dirigo Labs startup incubator and the president and CEO of the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce shares how new ventures thrive when local leaders connect people, resources and opportunities.

"First Flight showed what can happen when people are given the opportunity to share an idea and take the first step," said the president of the Lewiston Auburn Chamber of Commerce.

Saco Bay Sea Farms is developing a “plug-and-play” aquaculture coworking space, allowing farmers to test sea farming practices at a fraction of the cost typically required.

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

Susan Ruhlin started in the role on March 23, succeeding Shanna Cox as the organization’s president and CEO. Cox announced her resignation last July to run for political office.

Mainebiz recorded changes at law firms, banks, health care institutions, utilities and nonprofits. 

Susan Ruhlin, the former head of Dirigo Labs in Waterville, aims to bring people together for shared meals via a platform called JoynaTable.

Jeff Frank brings a diverse background in private-sector innovation, public policy and community development to his new role at Dirigo Labs.

The 2023 Mainebiz Woman to Watch honoree has led the Waterville startup accelerator for four years.

The curriculum includes fundraising education that aims to equip founders with skills to access capital and scale their businesses.