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Updated: 1 hour ago

First-ever Maine Tech Week about 'more than technology'

By Renee Cordes

Hundreds of technology enthusiasts and industry leaders from across the state are expected to gather in Portland next week for the first-ever Maine Tech Week.  

Scheduled to take place at various locations in Maine's largest city from Oct. 20-23, the gathering aims to celebrate industries that have long shaped Maine’s identity while shining a light on innovation in sectors from manufacturing and retail to gaming and marine-related industries.

Programming will include talks, moderated discussions, small working groups and hands-on sessions around the theme “Built on Legacy. Driven By Possibility."

The event will start with an evening panel discussion and networking mixer on AI startups at Orange Bike Brewing and includes sessions on how technology transforms advertising and creative production, the backstory of the CashStar exit, a workshop on making design systems work and a short-form storytelling extravaganza at Aura.

Torie Delisle
Photo / Courtesy of Maine Tech Week
Torie DeLisle

“Maine Tech Week is about more than just technology. It’s about community," said Torie DeLisle, Maine Tech Week’s founding director. “By honoring our legacy and embracing the possibilities ahead, we are building a resilient ecosystem that can thrive on both a national and global stage."

William Sullivan, a self-described serial entrepreneur and co-organizer of Maine Tech Week, told Mainebiz that the event was inspired by efforts in Austin, Texas, and other cities to “open up their innovation scenes.”

“Locally, events like TEDxDirigo, PopTech and the early days of Maine Startup & Create Week proved how powerful it is to blend creativity, technology and local stories," he said. "Maine Tech Week builds on that spirit."

Kachina Miller of Watermelon Pie
File Photo / Jim Neuger
Kachina Miller of Watermelon Pie

Between 350 to 400 people are expected to attend Maine Tech Week, according to Kachina Miller, a steering committee member and event co-organizer. 

“It has been a lot of fun and the enthusiasm from the business community has been so energizing,” said Miller, the Belfast-based founder and CEO of the Watermelon Pie recipe-sharing platform. "It’s so inspiring to learn about the work happening right here in little ol' Maine.”

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