Innovation Begins with Connection — Not Just a Pitch Deck
At UpStart Maine, we’ve seen firsthand that innovation rarely starts with a polished pitch or a perfectly planned business model. More often, it begins with something simple and human: a conversation. A shared laugh over coffee, a chat during a downtown walk, or even a spontaneous idea floated between two kindred spirits.
And nowhere is that truer than in downtown Bangor, Maine—a place where creative collisions and entrepreneurial connections happen every day.
The Story of Lisa and Ashleigh: A Downtown Dream Born at CoVort
Over eight years ago, Lisa Liberatore and Ashleigh Briggs met at CoVort, Bangor’s first coworking space. Lisa co-founded CoVort with Jason Harkins to support early-stage entrepreneurs, remote workers, and side hustlers looking for a space to belong.
Ashleigh was one of those driven individuals. She arrived with big goals and a whole lot of ambition. Lisa saw that spark right away. What started as casual conversations quickly grew into a mutual support system that carried them through the highs and lows of business—and life.
Their Recipe for Long-Term Connection?
- Daily conversations about business wins and challenges
- Kayaking during lunch breaks on the Kenduskeag Stream
- Downtown Bangor walks filled with spontaneous brainstorming
- Shared accountability, friendship, and professional respect
This kind of connection isn’t an accident. It’s what happens when people have the right space to show up, be seen, and collaborate.
Turning Transitions into Opportunities
When the pandemic disrupted routines and shifted priorities, Lisa transitioned into real estate. That left a big question mark around CoVort’s future.
Ashleigh, true to her entrepreneurial nature, stepped up. She purchased CoVort and reimagined it as Rize CoWorking & Collaboration, moving it into a larger, more dynamic location in the heart of downtown Bangor.
“It wasn’t in my long-term plan,” Ashleigh shared. “But the opportunity was possible because of the community I had built over the years.”
Since then, she’s launched several ventures—all rooted in community, innovation, and connection. Rize is more than a coworking space; it’s a hub for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and innovators who want to be part of something bigger.
Why Shared Spaces Like Rize Matter for Entrepreneurs in Bangor
At UpStart Maine, we believe that places like Rize aren’t just about desks and Wi-Fi. They’re about sparking human connection that leads to:
- Increased resilience during tough times
- Access to diverse skill sets and peer feedback
- Real friendships built on mutual trust and understanding
- Unexpected opportunities that shift your trajectory
For entrepreneurs, especially in smaller cities like Bangor, Maine, these connections can be game-changers. They’re what help founders keep going—through pivots, pressure, and uncertainty.
UpStart Maine + Rize: Strengthening the Regional Ecosystem
As part of the UpStart Maine coalition, Rize exemplifies the kind of collaboration that moves the needle. Through our network, we’re:
- Expanding access to mentorship and expertise
- Co-hosting events that build authentic relationships
- Supporting each other’s growth in real, tangible ways
The ripple effect? A stronger, more connected innovation ecosystem throughout Bangor and the surrounding region.
Join Us in Downtown Bangor: UpStart Meetup at Rize CoWorking
Let’s build the next great connection—together.
📅 Tuesday, July 16
⏰ 4:30–6:30 PM
📍 Rize CoWorking, Downtown Bangor
💬 RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-upstart-meetup-tickets-1411107112359
Enjoy:
- Light refreshments + a signature cocktail
- Inspiring conversations with like-minded locals
- A welcoming space to share your journey—or start a new one
Who’s Made a Lasting Impact on Your Journey?
Take a moment. Think about someone you met through networking who changed your path. A mentor, a partner, a friend. That’s the power of connection.
Now imagine who you might meet next.
You never know where one conversation might lead.
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.