Ignite You
Upcoming Events
Purpose
To produce a high-impact series of events focusing on workforce development by way of personal and professional growth.
Objectives
The Aroostook County workforce will:
- Build the next generation of community of leaders.
- Become more well-rounded in all aspects of personal and professional development.
- Understand that personal development is a critical investment in themselves and has impact on their businesses.
- Learn new skills to help hire, train, develop, and retain.
- Feel supported and better understand the existing support systems and resources that Ignite and other key community partners provide.
- Have the ability to explore unlikely partnerships and collaborations.
Grants
Ignite You is fueled by the generous support of two key grant awards received in the summer of 2024: the MERC grant through the Maine Technology Institute and a Workforce Development grant. These grants are more than just funding—they're a catalyst for connection, learning, and opportunity. With this support, we've been able to create spaces and experiences that empower people across Aroostook County to grow their ideas, develop their skills, and build meaningful networks.
From hands-on workshops to thought-provoking community gatherings, Ignite you is sparking conversations and collaborations that strengthen our regional workforce, support entrepreneurs, and energize our local economy. Through partnerships with organizations like the Maine Women’s Network and NMDC, we’re not just running programs—we’re cultivating a culture of innovation and belonging that has the power to shape the future of our community.
Our Why
Ignite You was born out of a powerful vision: to spark economic growth, leadership, and entrepreneurial energy in the heart of Aroostook County. Through a generous grant from Merck administered by the Maine Technology Institute (MTI), Ignite Presque Isle launched this dynamic leadership series to equip local professionals with the tools, confidence, and connections to lead change. By investing in people—particularly middle managers, small business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs—we are investing in the long-term vitality of our community.
Rooted in the historic Northeastern Hotel, Ignite You brings energy and ideas back into a space that has long served as a civic hub. The former Copper’s Bar has been reimagined as our innovation center—a place where thought leaders and emerging voices gather to share ideas, develop solutions, and spark collaborations. Each Ignite You session is more than an event; it’s a stepping stone toward a more resilient, innovative, and self-sustaining local economy.
Ignite You is the first public-facing initiative of Ignite Presque Isle, and it sets the tone for what’s to come. By blending rural values with visionary thinking, we are creating a leadership ecosystem that belongs to the people of northern Maine. We believe that real transformation starts when communities invest in their own talent—and that’s exactly what this series is designed to do.
Survey Says...
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6 months ago
Jane Faber
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6 months ago
Jane Faber
Meet our Amazing Sponsors
The Maine Entrepreneurial Resource Corps (MERC) connects entrepreneurs with expert consultants.
Attend an Event to Fareharbor
Ignite your business! Book professional workshops on profit, growth, and sustainability with Ignite PI.
The Northeastland Hotel has been hosting special events for decades
Choose a Charming Location for Your Special Occasion
