Launching a business in Maine can feel equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Maybe you have “the idea,” that spark of inspiration, but you’re unsure how to turn that vision into something real. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone either.
At Upstart Maine, we see hundreds of entrepreneurs across Bangor, Brewer, Orono, and beyond take those first steps every year. And one of the most inspiring examples of momentum in action comes from Maine entrepreneur, Alyson Mayo—founder of Gert & Lil’s, makers of gluten-free, vegan, crème-filled cookies now carried in 8+ retailers across Maine.
Her story is packed with lessons, encouragement, and proof that the first step matters more than perfection.
The Power of Starting Before You’re "Ready"
Like many founders, Alyson wrestled with the pressure to get everything perfect first—the branding, the packaging, the pricing, the strategy.
But then came a mindset shift she now shares with other Maine founders:
“Just start. I delayed for a long time and realized there was no reason to wait. I wanted it to be perfect but it wasn’t going to happen.”
This is the heart of entrepreneurship:
- Start messy.
- Learn fast.
- Improve as you go.
- Stay in motion.
Forward movement—no matter how small—creates clarity and opportunity.
From Idea to Retail Shelves Across Maine
Alyson connected with Upstart Maine through our Food Mastermind, where she joined other makers navigating:
- Pricing & product margins
- Wholesale strategies
- Scaling production
- Retail placement
- Brand positioning
In these rooms, creative problem-solving meets collaboration, and founders gain support that accelerates their journey.
Through the program, Alyson:
- Worked alongside fellow Maine food entrepreneurs
- Presented at Innovation Nights
- Shared her story publicly
- Built lasting peer relationships
- Connected with strategic retail partners
Today, her products are found in stores throughout Maine—proof of what happens when founders take action and tap into community support.
Why Community Creates Momentum
Entrepreneurship in Maine can feel isolating—especially in the early stages.
But shared support systems change everything.
For many founders, the most valuable outcomes aren’t financial. They’re relational:
- Accountability
- Encouragement
- Strategy support
- Emotional resilience
- New opportunities
- Shared connections
As Alyson experienced, the people you meet early in your journey may walk with you for years.
That’s where momentum grows.
What Entrepreneurs Gain When They “Just Start”
When you take action—even imperfect action—you unlock:
1. Direction – Each step reveals the next one.
2. Confidence – You prove to yourself you can.
3. Clarity – Questions turn into answers through movement.
4. Community – Support appears when you show up.
5. Opportunity – Doors open when you knock.
Are You a Maine Founder Sitting on an Idea?
If so, this is your moment.
You don’t need perfect packaging.
You don’t need a website ready.
You don’t need polished messaging.
You just need to begin.
Whether you are:
- developing a food product,
- launching a tech startup,
- scaling a small business,
- or pivoting an existing idea…
Upstart Maine is here to help you build the momentum that transforms ideas into opportunities.
Connect With Upstart Maine & Take Your First Step
Our programs, pitch events, masterminds, and workshops are designed specifically for early-stage Maine founders ready to take action.
You’ll gain:
- Guidance from experts
- Structure and accountability
- Real-world advice
- Powerful community support
- Business validation opportunities
- Local exposure
- Strategic connections
And maybe—even just maybe—the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
Ready to Start Your Story?
If you’re an entrepreneur in Maine building something new, we want to hear from you.
👉 Reach out to Upstart Maine today to connect with our team, join a program, or get featured in an upcoming founder spotlight.
Your momentum begins with a single step.
Let’s take it 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