The inaugural Maine Innovation Exchange, hosted by the Office of Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Resources, and Engagement (SPIRE) aims to streamline how businesses can tap into the portfolio of research, innovation, infrastructure, and talent at the University of Maine, the state’s top research university. The one-day conference will showcase partnership success stories and workshops to help business leaders translate innovation expertise into implementable takeaways for business. It will also connect participants with resources that can help drive innovation. Speakers include Joshua Henry, president and CEO of TimberHP; Mark Ferguson, president of Brant & Cochran; Bruce Hall, director of agroecology at Jasper Wyman & Son; Matt Nixon, Owner of Muddy River Farm Aquaponics; Garrett VanAtta, director of operations at Johnson Outdoors; Robert Lindyberg, CEO of Global Secure Shipping, and UMaine leaders and experts including President Joan Ferrini-Mundy.

The event is part of Maine Impact Week, a celebration of UMaine’s community and contributions to the scientific, social, and economic advancement of the state and beyond. Sponsored by the Office of the Vice President of Research and the Dean of the Graduate School.

SPIRE will host the Foster Center for Innovation Innovation Awards at the Foster Center from 4:30–6:30 p.m. The event recognizes and celebrates the impact of students, faculty, staff, and alumni shaping the future with innovative ideas and projects. Follow this link to RSVP for the Awards event.