Dirigo Labs Accelerator 2027
A free 16 week accelerator in Waterville for Maine startups with early traction, from February to May 2027. Apply by January 8, 2027.
The Dirigo Labs Accelerator 2027 is a 16 week program for Maine startups that already have some traction. It is run by the Central Maine Growth Council in Waterville. The program runs from Monday, February 1 to late May 2027.
A small cohort works with mentors, investors and industry experts. The program has three phases. First comes the Dirigo Model, nine virtual sessions in February where each company builds a custom financial model. Then come Build and Raise, with weekly workshops, office hours, evening sessions and in person events in Waterville on product, go to market and investor pitches.
The program ends at the annual Dirigo Labs Pitch Competition in Waterville, where every cohort company pitches to judges and a live audience for cash prizes. In 2026 the competition had a $25,000 prize pool.
Startups based in Maine or committed to building there can apply. Applicants should have reached at least one milestone, such as revenue, customers or users, funded research and development, business grants, investor interest or earlier startup success. The organizer welcomes companies in artificial intelligence, the bioeconomy, the blue economy, advanced manufacturing, healthcare and clean technology.
Applications are made through the form on the Dirigo Labs website, and there is no fee to apply. The deadline is Friday, January 8, 2027. Finalists are invited to a short conversation in mid January, and accepted companies hear back by the end of January.
Quick answers
How much does it pay?
The official page does not state an amount.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is 8 January 2027.
Who can apply?
Startups with early traction that are based in Maine or committed to building there. It is limited to applicants in North America.
Is it online or in person?
Online and in person, in Waterville, United States.
How do I apply?
Through the official page at dirigolabs.org. The link is at the top of this page.
Is there a fee to apply?
No. There is no fee to apply.
Do I have to be based in Maine already?
No. Startups based in Maine or committed to building there can apply.