June 9, 2015–Maine Startup & Create Week (MSCW) showcases Maine’s vibrant startup ecosystem and connects the growing community of people inspired by the economic success and potential of Portland and Maine. With more than 75 events offered over 7 days, MSCW is a rich blend of passion-fueled discussion, education, and collaboration that challenges innovators, business owners and supporters to think big, be bold, and take risks. The 2015 program, featuring nationally renowned speakers and panelists, is built around three tracks: Food Innovation, Small Business, and Scale & Growth.

Look for CEI throughout the week! Kate Curran, Training & Outreach Coordinator with the Women’s Business Center at CEI, is co-chair of the MSCW marketing committee, and a member of the executive committee. Daniel Wallace, Program Developer for CEI’s Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Program, will be moderating a panel event called Food to Fork 2.0 on June 24. Hugh Cowperthwaite, CEI Fisheries Project Director, will be participating in an event called Reinvigorating and Innovating Traditional Crops on June 24. Betsy Biemann, Vice Chair of CEI’s Board of Directors and director of the Maine Food Cluster Project at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, will speak at Making Maine a Great Place to Grow Food Companies on June 22.

In addition, the Women’s Business Center is hosting Women in Entrepreneurship, featuring five amazing female entrepreneurs. The panel will be held during lunch hours on June 22 from 12:15 -1:45 at the Mechanics Hall on Congress St. Cost is $10 with online registration and FREE for Maine Startup & Create Week ticket holders.

We hope to see you there!