Prize to be Awarded to Top Startup at Dirigo Labs’ 2025 Pitch Event on May 28th in Downtown Waterville
Waterville, ME – April 7, 2025 –
As Dirigo Labs, an accelerator operating under the Central Maine Growth Council, continues to expand its footprint as a leading innovation hub in Maine, Skowhegan Savings Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to fueling the next generation of entrepreneurs by sponsoring the $25,000 pitch competition prize for the accelerator’s fourth cohort. The pitch event, a high-energy showcase of the state’s most promising startups, will take place on May 28th from 5:00 – 7:30 pm at Greene Block & Studios located at 18 Main St in downtown Waterville.
For four years, Skowhegan Savings Bank has been a dedicated partner in Central Maine Growth Council’s mission to support Maine entrepreneurs, helping to establish a thriving innovation hub in central Maine. Their continued sponsorship has been instrumental in providing founders with critical resources to grow their businesses, access capital, and connect with key networks. Dirigo Labs has significantly expanded its programs and services to offer deeper, more tailored support to startup founders. With an increasing focus on capital access, industry-specific mentorship, and commercialization strategies, the accelerator is equipping entrepreneurs with the tools needed to navigate challenges and scale their businesses in Maine. These initiatives reinforce Dirigo Labs’ role as a key driver of economic growth in the state, strengthening central Maine’s position as a hub for innovation.
“Skowhegan Savings is thrilled to continue our support for the Dirigo Labs Pitch Competition. This event not only showcases the incredible talent and innovation within our community but also aligns with our mission to foster economic growth and workforce development in Maine. Our commitment to local entrepreneurs and businesses flourishes through initiatives like this,” said Dan Tilton, President of Skowhegan Savings.
This year’s 12-week accelerator program is designed to provide startups with deeper, more tailored support. In addition to intensive mentorship and workshops on fundraising, market development, and financial strategy, Dirigo Labs has introduced expanded support for cleantech founders navigating regulatory landscapes and securing non-dilutive funding. The program’s enhanced curriculum also connects startups with federal funding pathways, helping founders tap into SBIR/STTR grants and other resources to fuel their ventures.
“As Dirigo Labs grows, so does the opportunity for Maine entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into scalable, investment-ready businesses,” said Susan Ruhlin, Managing Director of Dirigo Labs. “With Skowhegan Savings Bank’s continued support, we’re not only helping startups secure capital, we’re also building a sustainable ecosystem where innovation can thrive long-term.”
The pitch competition marks the culmination of the program, where startups will compete for funding and showcase the progress they’ve made over the past four months. A panel of investors, industry leaders, and innovation experts will judge the competition based on market potential, business viability, team strength, and impact on Maine’s economy.
With an ever-growing network of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, Dirigo Labs is helping shape the future of Maine’s startup economy. For more information about Dirigo Labs and how to get involved, visit www.dirigolabs.org.
About Dirigo Labs:
Dirigo Labs, a program of the Central Maine Growth Council, is a regional startup accelerator and incubator based in Waterville, Maine. The organization is dedicated to supporting innovative startups and small businesses through mentorship, access to capital, and strategic partnerships. Dirigo Labs aims to advance economic development and position Maine as a hub for entrepreneurship and technological advancement.
About Skowhegan Savings:
Skowhegan Savings Bank has been dedicated to strengthening Maine’s families, businesses, and communities by providing personalized and competitive banking services to the regions they serve for 150 years. An independent mutual savings bank based in Skowhegan, our mission is to provide customers with exceptional service in an innovative banking environment that effectively and efficiently puts the financial needs of the customer first. Skowhegan Savings takes pride in not only being a great place to bank but also a great place to work. For more information about Skowhegan Savings, please visit Skowhegan.com or contact our Customer Service line at 800.303.9511.
Last modified: April 9, 2025
