At UpStart Maine, we’ve seen that innovation doesn’t always start with a pitch deck or a polished business plan. It often begins with something far simpler: human connection. And few people embody that truth more than Lisa Liberatore.

Building Community from the Ground Up

Over eight years ago, Lisa co-founded CoVort, Bangor’s first coworking space, alongside Jason Harkins. Her vision was to create a home for early-stage entrepreneurs, remote workers, and side hustlers—a place where people could belong, connect, and grow.

Through CoVort, Lisa cultivated an environment where ideas sparked naturally: a casual chat over coffee, a brainstorm on a downtown walk, or even a kayak trip on the Kenduskeag Stream. For Lisa, coworking was never just about desks and Wi-Fi. It was about building relationships that fuel resilience, collaboration, and long-term success.

A Champion of Connection and Possibility

Lisa’s gift has always been seeing the spark in others and creating the conditions for it to thrive. Many entrepreneurs who started at CoVort went on to build businesses, launch ventures, and deepen their roots in the Bangor community—all influenced by Lisa’s commitment to fostering authentic connections.

Her leadership extended beyond providing a physical space; she modeled what it meant to show up, support others, and embrace both the opportunities and challenges of entrepreneurship.

Embracing Transitions, Creating Opportunities

When the pandemic shifted priorities, Lisa made a bold move into real estate—a new chapter that built on her entrepreneurial instincts and her deep ties to the Bangor community. While she passed the torch of CoVort to the next generation, the legacy of connection she started continues to ripple through Bangor’s innovation ecosystem.

Today, Lisa’s impact is visible in the thriving culture of collaboration across the region. Her early efforts with CoVort laid the foundation for what is now Rize CoWorking & Collaboration, and her ongoing work in real estate keeps her at the heart of helping people find not just spaces, but possibilities.

Why Lisa’s Work Matters

Lisa reminds us that entrepreneurship is never a solo act. Her story proves that shared spaces and genuine connections can:

• Spark new opportunities when least expected
• Build resilience through peer support
• Strengthen entire communities through collaboration

Looking Ahead

Lisa continues to inspire through her entrepreneurial journey, her commitment to community, and her belief that innovation begins with people. Her story is proof that when someone creates space for connection, the results can transform not only businesses—but entire communities.