Welcome to the 2026 Federal Funding Summit presented by Central Maine Growth Council-Dirigo Labs, Maine APEX Accelerator and Maine Technology Institute!

Join Maine’s innovation ecosystem for a full-day summit focused on helping startups and small businesses navigate SBIR/STTR funding opportunities, connect with experts, and strengthen competitive proposals.

This in-person event will be held on July 16, 2026 at the Greene Block + Studios on 18 Main Street in Waterville, Maine.

Agenda and speaker details coming soon.

This event is geared for entrepreneurs, researchers, startups, small businesses, and economic development professionals who want to better understand federal funding mechanisms and grow their innovation impact.

This event is free to attend but requires advanced registration. Space is limited so be sure to sign up today! The day includes coffee, pastries, and snacks.

Thank you to our participating partners, including Central Maine Growth Council/Dirigo Labs, Maine APEX Accelerator, Maine Technology Institute (MTI), National Science Foundation (NSF), Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Connect, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Department of Navy SBIR/STTR.