The U.S. Smaller Company Administration partnered with the Countrywide Science and Engineering Council’s Lab-to-Current market subcommittee to award a total of $330,000 in prizes to the winners of the new Lab-to-Industry (L2M) Inclusive Innovation Ecosystem Prize Competition. From amid over 160 submissions, Central Maine Expansion Council was picked to receive a “Visionary” prize of $25,000 to develop the reach of their community and develop options for small corporations in Central Maine.
The L2M prize competition recognizes the most impactful corporations, packages and ideas that support the exploration and growth (R&D) innovation ecosystems, specifically those concentrated on underrepresented communities and pandemic responses. The competition’s target is to inspire entrepreneurship and inclusive, sustainable advancement by producing and commercializing technology to enhance entry to resources.
“The variety of Central Maine Expansion Council for this award is a recognition of the potent collaborations that transpire between corporations below in Maine,” stated Diane Sturgeon, deputy district director of SBA’s Maine District Place of work. “By investing in local businesses, the SBA is furnishing sources to those who have an understanding of their communities greatest, and are capable to leverage their expertise on behalf of Maine’s business people.”
“We are honored to be recognized by the countrywide Lab-to-Current market competition for our commitments to Maine-based entrepreneurs, small companies, and the state’s innovation landscape,” explained Garvan Donegan, director of arranging, innovation & economic progress at CMGC. “As we arise out of the COVID-19 pandemic, this funding will be used to keep on our trendline of resiliency and help with launching our Dirigo Labs accelerator application and an affiliated network of resources for innovation fellows, business people, and startup businesses.”
Submissions were evaluated for good quality and clarity by a panel of federal personnel and non-federal partners with related abilities. Remaining selection was created by an interagency committee in coordination with the SBA’s Office of Innovation and Technologies.