Frequently Asked Questions

Entering The Competition:

Q. Can I preview the application questions before it opens on July 13?

A. Yes! Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for entrepreneurs to apply, so we provide the questions in advance. View the application questions here. If you’re considering applying, listen to our 2021 winner, HighByte, talk about the value of going through the application process.

Q. How can I make my LaunchPad application stronger?

A. Review the Judging Criteria and watch our “Before You Apply” video to learn more from the LaunchPad Judges themselves about what they look for in an application. Also, look for the help text next to application questions for helpful hints! Be sure to validate any statements or claims with financial information whenever possible.

Q. I don’t have the resources or time to film a video for my application. Will that hurt me?

A. Absolutely not. We want to give all applicants equal opportunity, which is why it’s your choice to answer the question with either a video or a written response. However we strongly encourage submitting a video, even an iPhone video gives judges valuable insight into you and your business.

Q. Can I save my application and come back to it later?

A. Yes! We know small business owners are pulled in lots of different directions, and we want to be sensitive to that. Anytime on or after July 13, get started by creating your account. Just remember to click “Save Progress” before closing your browser and don’t forget to submit your application before the August 13 deadline.

Q. I know the deadline is August 13, but what time? Do I have all day to put the finishing touches on my application?

A. The application deadline for the 2026 LaunchPad competition is 5:00pm on Thursday, August 13. If you have any issues with the application, please email launchpad@maine.bank.

Q. I know the award is $75,000—but what is that? A loan? Will I need to pay it back?

A. The $75,000 award is a no-strings-attached grant, so it does not need to be paid back. The mission of LaunchPad is to help fund the growth of Maine’s most innovative small businesses by providing one of the most critical ingredients—capital. It’s one tangible way that Maine Community Bank can show its support for entrepreneurs and new businesses in Maine.

Q. I applied before—can I update my application, rather than starting from scratch?

A. Unfortunately, not this year, however we hope to offer this feature again moving forward.

Q. Who can I contact with a question, or about an issue I’m having with the website or application?

A. Email launchpad@maine.bank and we’d be happy to help.

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The Review Process:

Q. Once I apply, when will I hear whether I’ve been selected as a LaunchPad or Emerging Business Award finalist?

A. All applicants will be notified by Friday, September 25, 2026. We greatly appreciate your patience as our preliminary judges diligently review the applications.

Q. If I’m selected as a finalist, how long do I have to prepare for the live event?

A. All finalists will be notified three weeks before the live event, which will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. We will also host a Finalist Orientation for the $75,000 finalists the week before the event to help familiarize them with the event agenda.

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The Emerging Business Award:

Q. My business is very early-stage. Can I apply for the Emerging Business Award?

A. We know you’re busy running your business, so we kept it simple. All LaunchPad applicants are automatically considered for both prize levels, the $75,000 grant and the Emerging Business Award valued at $25,000. No separate application is required.

Q. What do judges look for in an Emerging Business Award finalist?

A. The judging criteria for the Emerging Business Award is the same as for our $75,000 grant: viability, scalability, uniqueness, management, and impact. Additionally, our judges look for a promising, innovative small business at a stage where the business and marketing-related services could help launch them to the next level.

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The LaunchPad Live Pitch Event:

Q. Where and when is the 2026 live event?

A. The event will take place on Tuesday, October 20 at Innovation Hall on UNE’s Portland Campus with a social hour beginning at 4:00pm and the competition kicking off at 5:15pm.

Q. Do I have to RSVP to attend the live event?

A. We strongly encourage you to RSVP in advance, although it is not required. There is no cost to attend LaunchPad. The event is about celebrating Maine’s entrepreneurial spirit.