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WATERVILLE — Susan Ruhlin has been named accelerator managing director for Centra;l Maine Growth Council’s Dirigo Labs. The accelerator, launching early next year, will be a catalyst in establishing a vibrant startup hub in the central Maine region.
Ruhlin will be responsible for the day-to-day logistics and operations of Dirigo Labs and will work directly with entrepreneurs, businesses, and local students to provide education of the Dirigo Labs’ suite of services, including preliminary startup consultation, talent retention and recruitment, and manage performance metrics during the project period.
“The central Maine region is Maine’s best-kept secret for launching new ventures,” Ruhlin said.
“The commitment and support from the community is palpable, and I’m excited to be part of
building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that’s only going to keep growing.”
Garvan Donegan said,m “As our new managing director of CMGC’s Dirigo Labs, Susan will work closely with executive leadership, academia, statewide partners, and state and regional startups to elevate Dirigo Labs’ operations and impact.” Donegan is principal investigator of Dirigo Labs and director of planning, innovation, and economic development for CMGC.
The accelerator’s framework will provide guidance on onitiatives catering to a high demand for advanced startups and increase the quantity of skilled labor in order to maximize product launch capability. Applications for the accelerator will open in late fall, with an anticipated launch in early 2022. For information, visit www.centralmaine.org/region/dirigo-labs
