2025 maine blue economy innovation summit
Connect with businesses, universities, non-profits, and investors from across Maine’s blue economy sectors for a dynamic gathering focused on collaboration and innovation.
Driving Innovation. Strengthening Collaboration. Building Maine’s Blue Future.
Maine is a national leader in the marine and coastal sectors, with a dynamic Blue Economy powered by innovation, research, and industry leadership. The Maine Blue Economy Innovation Summit brings together academic researchers, marine professionals, government agencies, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs to accelerate the growth of Maine’s marine industries through collaboration and knowledge exchange.
This one-day summit is designed to foster meaningful partnerships, connect industry with cutting-edge science, and identify real-world solutions to the challenges and opportunities shaping our coastal communities and marine economy. Attendees will engage in lightning talks, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and an interactive Innovation Showcase—all aimed at driving actionable outcomes that support resilience, sustainability, and economic growth in Maine’s Blue Economy.
Registration
Reserve Your Spot Today!
Registration includes access to all sessions, breakfast, lunch, and the networking reception.
Space is limited—please register early to secure your place.
Please contact Katrina Armstrong, katrina.armstrong@maine.edu with questions about accessibility or accommodations.
agenda
The day will include a keynote address, a panel discussion featuring university researchers and marine industry leaders, and a series of lightning talks on cutting-edge marine and coastal innovations. Attendees can participate in themed breakout sessions covering topics such as aquaculture and fisheries, marine technology, and workforce development. The event will conclude with an Innovation Showcase & Networking Reception, featuring hands-on demos and exhibits from UMaine labs and marine businesses.
Agenda Highlights
- Keynote Address: Michael Duguay, Commissioner, Maine Department of Economic Community Development
- Panel Discussion: Bridging Research and Practice in Maine’s Blue Economy
- Lunch & Exhibit Stroll featuring posters and expo tables
- Lightning Talks on marine and coastal research & products
- Breakout Sessions:
- Track A: Advanced Aquaculture & Fisheries Practices
- Track B: Coastal Engineering and Boat Building
- Track C: Strengthening the Marine and Coastal Workforce Pipeline
- Innovation Showcase Expo with hands-on demos, posters, and exhibits
- Networking Reception to close the day
Check out the full agenda!
Submit an abstract to feature your work with a lightning talk or poster!
The deadline to submit an abstract is Friday, September 12th, by 5PM. Selected presenters will be notified of acceptance by email by Wednesday, September 17th.
sponsorship opportunities
Support Innovation. Elevate Your Brand. Connect with Maine’s Blue Economy.
We welcome sponsors who are passionate about advancing marine science, coastal resilience, workforce development, and sustainable economic growth in Maine. As a sponsor, your organization will gain visibility among a dynamic cross-sector audience and demonstrate your commitment to a thriving and resilient Blue Economy.
Sponsorship Benefits May Include:
For more information on sponsorship tiers and benefits, please contact: Katrina Armstrong at katrina.armstrong@maine.edu
Thank you to our generous sponsors for making this event possible!
Platinum sponsors
silver sponsors
