Technology veteran brings 30 years of AI expertise to help Maine startups secure federal R&D funding through SBIR/STTR programs
Waterville, ME 03/17/2025 – The Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC) announced the appointment of Dr. Randolph M. Jones as the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Resource Center Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR).
The SBIR/STTR Resource Center serves as the central hub for Maine’s innovation ecosystem, providing specialized support to entrepreneurs navigating federal funding opportunities. As part of CMGC’s designation as a Federal and State Technology (FAST) organization for Maine, the Resource Center offers comprehensive guidance through complex application processes, delivering targeted technical assistance, and connecting startups with critical resources and partners. Dr. Jones will serve founders across Maine and those participating within Dirigo Labs. Through personalized mentorship, proposal development support, and commercialization planning, the Center significantly enhances Maine companies’ competitiveness for federal R&D funding, ultimately driving technological innovation and economic growth throughout the state.With more than 30 years of expertise in artificial intelligence, cognitive systems, and technology commercialization, Dr. Jones will play a vital role in advancing Maine’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Dr. Jones, an accomplished technology leader, Senior Artificial Intelligence Engineer, and Engineering Supervisor at Soar Technology, LLC, brings extensive experience in federal contracting, research and development, as well as startup experience. Holding a Ph.D. in Information and Computer Science from the University of California, Irvine, he has also served as an Assistant Professor at Colby College.
“Downtown Waterville is rapidly becoming one of Maine’s key innovation epicenters, and Dr. Jones’ presence at the SBIR/STTR Resource Center is a pivotal piece of that vision. His deep expertise will be a driving force behind educating and securing critical federal R&D funding, propelling Maine startups to national prominence. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jones to the CMGC and Dirigo Labs team,” said Garvan Donegan, Director of Planning, Innovation, and Economic Development at CMGC.
In his new role, Dr. Jones will support startups and entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of the SBIR and STTR programs. His responsibilities will include:
● Providing strategic guidance on SBIR/STTR applications and commercialization planning
● Coaching early-stage companies to enhance their readiness for federal funding opportunities
● Offering technical document review and feedback
● Expanding CMGC’s network by fostering connections with SBIR/STTR support organizations
● Developing a pipeline of SBIR/STTR-ready startups in Maine
Dr. Jones expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, emphasizing his commitment to supporting Maine’s entrepreneurial community.
“Maine’s innovation ecosystem represents tremendous untapped potential, and I’m honored to be working with the Central Maine Growth Council and Dirigo Labs to help bridge the gap between our entrepreneurs and federal funding opportunities. I am hopeful that the many exciting small businesses in Maine can find some value in my experience with the SBIR and STTR programs. Productive use of these federal R&D dollars will accelerate technological innovation across the state while creating sustainable economic growth in our communities,” said Dr. Randy Jones, Entrepreneur-in-Residence, SBIR/STTR Resource Center, Central Maine Growth Council.
Startups that are looking for federal R&D funding support or are interested in learning more about CMGC’s SBIR/STTR Resource Center can submit interest here – https://www.dirigolabs.org/2544-2/.
About Central Maine Growth Council
Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC), located in Waterville, Maine, is a public-private collaborative regional economic development partnership funded by municipalities and businesses who share a common vision of economic prosperity for our region. CMGC is committed to fostering a robust regional economy. Our belief is that the standard of living and quality of life of our citizens is best served by a vibrant, healthy economy. This is accomplished with a strong successful business community. To learn more about Central Maine Growth Council, visit www.centralmaine.org
About Dirigo Labs:
Dirigo Labs is a regional startup accelerator based in Waterville, Maine. With a mission to grow the greater Waterville area’s digital economy by supporting entrepreneurs building innovation-based companies, the Dirigo Labs ecosystem brings together people, resources, and organizations to ensure the successful launch of new startups. Dirigo Labs operates under Central Maine Growth Council and is supported by several organizations, academic institutions, and investment firms. To learn more about Dirigo Labs, please visit www.dirigolabs.org.
Last modified: April 14, 2025
