There is excitement in the region: innovative new companies are coming to market (many off the “radar”), large companies are investing in new technology development, and companies throughout the state are investigating new technology initiatives. Our recent Technology Awards Gala highlighted many of these recent accomplishments in the State.
So why isn’t our region recognized as a leading technology community?
Mostly it’s a lack of promoting our community both within and outside the region, the lack of a physical landmark that can visibly accentuate our accomplishments and catalyze our energy, and some lack of leadership. There’s a void where technology companies in our region aren’t recognized or organized together as well as they could be, and the good news and supportive environment often get lost in the ether. It’s a situation that needs correction and now is the time for leadership to emerge and highlight the region.
The leadership gap is not a recent problem, and it seems to be endemic in much of Maine’s business community. The need for TechMaine to become more aggressive in support of the technology sector has been advocated by many. From MESDA to TechMaine we’ve been an effective linkage for our community, and enjoy a reputation as one of the most important associations in Maine. While TechMaine could be doing more to support the growth and vitality of our sector, this must be a collaborative process to effect significant advancement in our region.
TechMaine is one powerful piece of the solution to drive the technology economy forward in Maine. TechMaine represents the private sector leaping forward to supply leadership to our own community and to be a vocal advocate for progress. The Technology Center can be the catalyst to bring the community together and add voice to the sector. We’re searching for the right property to foster this vision. One of the facilities we’re investigating is the Portland L.L.Bean retail space on Congress Street. It offers a significant amount of space and the location uniquely serves as the “bridge” between the downtown business and arts districts.
TechMaine is on the move – forward with a great deal of enthusiasm. There is a call for change, and the community has added their voice to support the effort. Proof comes with action, not just words. The action underway within TechMaine needs your support and involvement to keep the momentum heading in the right direction. There is much work to be done. Begin your involvement now and let your voice be heard. Contact us with your thoughts and ideas. How can you help us move the Technology Center forward…we’re listening.
This is the companion message to TechMaine is on the Move
Update:
We've had a number of questions asking about TechMaine's future support and activities outside of southern Maine. Our move will actually make it easier to connect with the rest of the state, and enable resources for folks from outside of Portland to tap into when they are in the area.
We were video broadcasting our User Group sessions to/from the Target Technology Center in Orono while we were at our previous facility. One of the problems in our Westbrook conference room was that while it was cool to have a wide open space the acoustics were awful for transmissions. So…two of the prime considerations for the new offices are that there be ample bandwidth and a better room for conducting video meetings.
Rest assured, our plans are to implement video conferencing, and originate sessions from outside of Portland.