CMGC Launches “Rural Rise” Competition to Support Rural Entrepreneurs
Winners to Receive One-Year Membership at Brick’s Coworking & Innovation Space and Personalized Business Assistance from Dirigo Labs
Waterville, ME – January 8, 2025 – Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC), in collaboration with its flagship innovation program, Dirigo Labs, is proud to announce the launch of CMGC’s Rural Rise Competition. This new initiative is designed to support innovation and entrepreneurship in Maine’s rural communities by offering visionary entrepreneurs the chance at a free, year-long Flex Membership at Brick’s Coworking & Innovation Space, along with tailored technical assistance and mentorship through Dirigo Labs.
The goal of the competition is to provide rural entrepreneurs, early-stage business owners, and small businesses with both a physical workspace and access to critical business development resources, mentorship, partnership and visibility.
“Strong economies are built by people and know-how. This competition is about supporting those foundational entrepreneurs and surrounding them with the structure they need to thrive. Through the collaboration between Brick’s and Dirigo Labs, we’re providing the two things every founder needs: a place to focus and a pathway to scale,” said Garvan Donegan, President and CEO of the Central Maine Growth Council.
Award Includes:
- A 12-month Flex Membership at Bricks Coworking & Innovation Space (Waterville), valued at approximately $3,000, with access to 24/7 secure workspace, meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and community programming.
- Business coaching and technical assistance through Dirigo Labs, including mentorship, startup readiness, business planning, and funding navigation
- Partnerships to CMGC’s regional networks, including entrepreneurs, service providers, and economic development professionals
- Public recognition and promotional support through CMGC and Dirigo Labs communication channels
Eligibility
The competition is open to Maine-based entrepreneurs, startups, and early-stage businesses that:
- Are located in or serve a rural Maine community;
- Have an existing venture or pre-revenue business idea;
- Are not current members of Bricks Coworking & Innovation Space; and
- Are interested in engaging with technical assistance opportunities through CMGC programs such as Dirigo Labs.
Applications are especially encouraged from businesses or founders aligned with:
- Clean Technology
- Maine’s Seven Technology Sectors
- Precision Manufacturing and HardTech
- Commercial or professional service ventures in mid-Maine
- Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)-eligible enterprises
- Rural Startups and Small Businesses
How to Apply
Applicants must complete a short online form and submit a brief description of their business or idea. Optional supplemental materials such as a pitch deck, business plan, or letters of support are encouraged.
Applications are due by March 9, 2026
Apply here: https://www.centralmaine.org/rural-rise/
A selection committee composed of Dirigo Labs staff and CMGC partners will review submissions using a competitive scoring process emphasizing rural impact, sector alignment, and entrepreneurial readiness. The winner will be announced at the end of March, and the Brick’s membership will begin in April 2026.
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 find out more about how CMGC can help your business succeed, give us a call at (207) 680-7300 or visit centralmaine.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.
Last modified: January 27, 2026
