For the past year, the Upstart Navigator, UpStart Maine’s navigation tool for entrepreneurs, has been a trusted tool for innovative businesses throughout the Bangor Region including in Central and Eastern Maine. Designed to connect entrepreneurs with critical resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities, the Navigator has had more than 7,000 visits by business owners ready to grow and scale.
If you’re a growth-focused entrepreneur, the Navigator continues to provide unparalleled support to help you reach your goals. Whether you’re refining your strategy, seeking mentorship, or unlocking new funding, it’s all just a click away.
What the Entrepreneurial Navigator Offers
Over the last year, the UpStart Navigator has empowered entrepreneurs to focus on growth by taking the guesswork out of finding the right resources.
Key features of the Navigator include:
- Mentorship Connections: Find the right mentors, advising and training services that fit your needs.
- Funding Opportunities: Access programs and resources to secure funding for your business.
- Networking Events: Discover opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals and grow your network.
- Tailored Support: Navigate the unique landscape of building a business in the Bangor area with resources designed for Maine entrepreneurs.
Whether you’ve used the Navigator before or you’re ready to dive in for the first time, explore it today to discover how it can help your business thrive.
UpStart Navigator Tutorial Video
To ensure entrepreneurs get the most out of the Navigator, we’ve created a step-by-step tutorial video that showcases how to navigate its features and maximize its benefits.
The video will walk you through key tools, from identifying funding opportunities to finding the right mentor and connecting with local networking events. It’s designed to help you make the most of everything the Navigator offers.
Tips for Finding Mentorship and Building Connections
Over the past year, one of the most impactful features of the Navigator has been its ability to connect entrepreneurs with mentors and networking opportunities. Here are a few tips to make the most of these resources:
- Be Proactive: Take the first step by reaching out to an advisor or training resource or attending a networking event. The Navigator helps you find opportunities that fit your needs—use it to your advantage.
- Ask Specific Questions: Mentors, such as you will find at any of the valuable resources included in the Navigator will be especially helpful when you approach them with clear goals and questions. Prepare ahead to make your interactions more productive.
- Engage Locally: The Bangor area is home to a vibrant entrepreneurial community. Lean on the Navigator to find local expertise and build relationships with others who understand your challenges.
Ready to connect? Click here to explore the Navigator.
A Year of Success: Thanks to Our Sponsors
The success of the Navigator wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible sponsors. Over the past year, they’ve played a critical role in fostering growth for entrepreneurs in our community.
Trainmaster Sponsors
Conductor Sponsors
Engineer Sponsor
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Sponsorship opportunities are available now, and we’d love to have you join us in supporting local businesses. To learn more, email us at innovation@upstartmaine.org.
Explore the Navigator Today
As we celebrate the Navigator’s first anniversary, we’re excited about what’s ahead. If you’re looking for tools to grow your business, connect with mentors, or find funding opportunities, the Navigator is here to guide you every step of the way.
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.