Have you ever wondered what it really takes to transform an idea into a successful company? Maybe you’re a student with a big idea, a hobbyist experimenting in your garage, or someone ready to turn a side hustle into a full-time business. No matter where you’re starting from, UpStart Maine is here to guide entrepreneurs across Maine through every stage of the journey.
One of the most powerful—and often overlooked—paths to entrepreneurship? Spinning research and innovation out of Maine’s universities and into the real world. That’s exactly how Brewer-based Compotech came to life, and their story might just be the spark you need.
Meet Compotech: A Startup with Serious Momentum
When Paul Melrose, a mechanical engineering graduate from UMaine, started tinkering with ideas in a university lab, he probably didn’t imagine that one day he’d lead one of Fortune 5000’s fastest-growing companies.
Here’s how it happened:
- Paul studied mechanical engineering at the University of Maine.
- He joined UMaine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC) as engineering manager.
- He founded Compotech as a part-time engineering consulting business while still at ASCC.
- Compotech grew into a full-time smart manufacturing and advanced composites company focused on defense technology.
- The Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce recognized Compotech with the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award.
Compotech’s success is proof that real innovation is happening right here in Brewer, Maine—and that launching a business out of university R&D isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.
The Many Paths to Becoming an Entrepreneur in Maine
At UpStart Maine, we believe that entrepreneurship doesn’t look one way—it looks like your way. Whether you’re:
- A student or researcher ready to take your innovation to market
- A corporate employee dreaming of independence
- A retiree seeking a meaningful second act
- A side gigger ready to go all in
- Or someone just exploring a hobby with passion and potential
You have a path. And we’re here to help you walk it—with tools, guidance, community, and support.
Bangor Innovation Who’s Making it Happen? Meet the Champions of Innovation in Bangor
We’re fortunate to have leaders who are deeply invested in building Maine’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Two key figures are:
Jason Harkins, Executive Dean at the Maine Business School, co-founder of both UpStart Maine and the Scratchpad Accelerator. He’s dedicated to helping startups grow with the right support systems.
Biguita Hernandez-Smith, Economic Development Officer for the City of Bangor. She works to connect entrepreneurs with resources that fuel growth and stability.
Jason and Biguita aren’t just behind-the-scenes names—they’re out front, sponsoring awards like the Large Business of the Year and supporting local businesses at every level.
Why This Matters to You
If you’ve ever said “maybe someday,” let Compotech’s story be your reminder that someday can start now—and it can start right here in Maine. From Bangor to Brewer, from UMaine to your home office, opportunity is closer than you think.
- Feeling stuck on your next step?
- Wondering if your idea could be a real business?
- Looking for support that actually understands your journey?
UpStart Maine is your partner.
Let’s Turn Your Idea into Impact
Whether you’re building a business from a university lab, your garage, or your kitchen table, UpStart Maine is ready to help. Start exploring:
- Entrepreneurial Events – Discover resources tailored to your stage.
- UpStart Programs – Accelerators, mentorship, and real-world guidance.
Your Future is Waiting—and It’s in Maine
Maine isn’t just a beautiful place to live. It’s an exciting, supportive place to start something extraordinary. If Paul Melrose and Compotech can go from part-time consulting to national success, what’s stopping you?
Ready to take your first step?
Contact UpStart Maine today—and let’s build your future, together.
If you have questions or need guidance, we’re here to help. Contact us at innovation@upstartmaine.org.
UpStart’s mission is to be the Bangor Region’s innovation hub that connects entrepreneurs statewide with resources to grow their businesses.
For more information on UpStart, contact innovation@upstartmaine.org.