Maine Community Bank Opens Applications for 2026 LaunchPad Competition
Maine entrepreneurs have until August 13 to apply for the state’s premier competition for innovative small businesses
PORTLAND, Maine – July 13, 2026 – Maine Community Bank has opened applications for its 2026 LaunchPad competition, inviting entrepreneurs from across the state to compete for $75,000 in no-strings-attached funding, visibility, and the opportunity to accelerate their innovative small businesses.
Now in its 13th year, LaunchPad has become one of Maine’s most recognized annual startup and small business competitions. Since its inception, the Bank has awarded nearly $650,000 in grants to help innovative new companies scale and connect local founders with investors, advisors, customers, and business leaders throughout the state.
Applications will be accepted now through August 13 at 5:00pm at maine.bank/launchpad. Five finalists will be selected to pitch their businesses on stage before a live audience and panel of judges, including Wall Street veteran, author, and podcast host Kristine Delano, Kate McAleer of Bixby Chocolate, and Peter DelGreco of Maine & Co., on October 20 at the University of New England’s Innovation Hall in Portland.
“Entrepreneurship has always been an integral part of Maine’s story,” said Steve deCastro, CEO of Maine Community Bank. “LaunchPad provides founders an opportunity to share what they’re building here and compete for grant funding that makes a meaningful impact at a critical stage of growth. Every year, we meet entrepreneurs who remind us of the innovation that continues to strengthen Maine’s business community.”
The winner of the 2026 LaunchPad competition will earn a $75,000 grant from Maine Community Bank. The additional Emerging Business Award will provide a $15,000 grant from the Bank, along with $10,000 of in-kind business and marketing services from iBec Creative, Creative Imaging Group, Grove Marketing, and Philbrook Public Relations, to a promising early-stage company. Both winners will be revealed during the live event.
Over the years, LaunchPad has helped spotlight businesses that have gone on to make a significant impact in Maine and beyond, including Flowfold, Bixby Chocolate, North Spore, HighByte, Tanbark, Bookclubs, and PFAS Laboratories, among many others.
Eligible applicants must operate a Maine-based business and meet the criteria outlined in the official rules. Innovative entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries are encouraged to apply. Finalists will be notified in late September.
Apply and learn more at maine.bank/LaunchPad.
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About Maine Community Bank
Headquartered in Portland, Maine Community Bank is the largest mutual savings bank operating exclusively in the state, with nearly $3 billion in assets and 21 branches across Androscoggin, Cumberland, and York counties. With a rich 150+ year heritage, the bank remains proudly ‘All in on Maine’ and committed to helping Maine families, businesses, and communities thrive.
As the only bank headquartered in Cumberland County, Maine Community Bank is a depositor-owned institution committed to local decision-making and offering a comprehensive suite of both personal and business financial services, as well as wealth management.
Committed to the well-being of its communities, Maine Community Bank annually contributes thousands of volunteer hours and financial resources to community-based initiatives. By investing in local partnerships that promote financial literacy, stimulate economic growth, and foster entrepreneurship, the bank strengthens the fabric of the communities it serves. Learn more at maine.bank.

Kristina Therrien will assume the new role of Cash Management Sales Manager, overseeing a dedicated Sales and Advisory team that will partner with Commercial Bankers and branches to drive client growth. Therrien brings 15 years of industry experience, along with strategic insight and proven leadership.
rganizational culture, employee engagement, and community connection. His expanded role reflects the bank’s belief that how it communicates externally starts with the strength of its people and internal culture.


As Chief Client Development Officer at Maine Community Bank, Kim Donnelly provides strategic direction for cash management services, residential and consumer lending, as well as the Bank’s wealth management division. She also oversees the bank’s partnership with Bigelow Investment Advisors.