I. Position Overview: Innovation & Development Coordinator
Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Innovation & Development Coordinator (IDC) to join its dynamic team. This pivotal role involves analytical and technical work in designing, supporting, and implementing economic and workforce development initiatives that drive growth and opportunity across the region.
The Innovation & Development Coordinator will be at the forefront of driving CMGC’s mission and the growth of the mid-Maine regional economy, supporting and orchestrating impactful projects, communications, marketing strategies, and outreach efforts for high-profile programs. A key focus will be supporting municipal and investor clients, CMGC’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Resource Center, and Dirigo Labs (DL)— one of the state of Maine’s premier accelerator programs—designed to ignite entrepreneurial growth, spark innovation, and build pathways for workforce development and startup success. Through CMGC projects and DL, the IDC will help attract, expand, and retain businesses, fueling the region’s economic vitality.
The IDC’s influence will extend to supporting municipal, state, and federal projects, amplifying CMGC’s role as a catalyst for regional progress and transformative economic development. This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference by connecting vision with action and driving meaningful results.
In collaboration with the CMGC executive director and the director of planning, innovation, and economic development, the IDC will craft and execute strategies that attract public and private interest and investments, fuel business growth, and expand workforce opportunities. Operating with a high degree of independence, initiative, and creativity, the Innovation & Development Coordinator will be instrumental in shaping and implementing an ambitious economic development plan set forth by CMGC’s board of directors.
If you are passionate about building vibrant communities, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving economic progress, CMGC invites you to bring your experience and expertise to this exciting opportunity.
II. Duties & Key Responsibilities
- Economic Development & Strategy:
- Collaborate with the CMGC leadership team to develop and implement a comprehensive economic development strategy aligned with regional goals.
- Conduct market research and analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities within the region.
- Support the development of targeted strategies to attract new businesses and encourage existing businesses to expand.
- Assist CMGC in creation and development of public-private and philanthropic grant and contract proposals.
- Investor Relations:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with current CMGC investors and funders.
- Support and develop compelling investment proposals and presentations to secure necessary funding for CMGC events and initiatives.
- Conduct investor outreach with a goal of retaining, attracting, and generally growing CMGC’s portfolio of investors.
- Business Development:
- Work closely with local businesses, to identify growth opportunities, provide technical assistance, and facilitate access to capital and resources.
- Develop and implement programs to support entrepreneurship and small business development.
- Organize and facilitate networking events, workshops, and conferences to connect businesses with potential partners and customers.
- Workforce Development:
- Collaborate with local, regional, and statewide educational institutions, training providers, and employers to develop and implement workforce development programs that address current and future labor market needs.
- Assist in identifying skills gaps and develop strategies to address them through training programs, apprenticeships, and internships.
- Facilitate partnerships between businesses and educational institutions to create customized training programs.
- Marketing and Communications:
- Advance the development of marketing and communications strategies to promote CMGC's work, build brand awareness, and engage with stakeholders.
- Create high-quality content, including press releases, articles, social media posts, and newsletters.
- Manage CMGC's website and other digital platforms, including CMGC’s downtown Waterville WiFi program.
- Assist with organizing and hosting public events and workshops to raise awareness about CMGC's initiatives.
- Data Analysis and Reporting:
- Utilize data analytics to track progress, measure impact, and inform decision-making.
- Prepare regular reports on key performance indicators and share insights with the CMGC team and external stakeholders.
- Develop data-driven strategies to improve the effectiveness of CMGC's programs and initiatives.
III. Position Requirements + About You
CMGC is seeking a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with a background in economic development, entrepreneurship, business administration, marketing and/or a related field. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills: Ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and develop data-driven solutions.
- Excellent communication skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills to engage with diverse stakeholders, including business leaders, government officials, and community members.
- Project management expertise: Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
- Relationship-building skills: Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain positive relationships with partners, stakeholders, and community members.
- Knowledge of economic development principles and practices: Understanding of economic development theories, tools, and techniques.
- Experience with grant writing and fundraising: Ability to identify funding opportunities and assist in preparing compelling grant proposals.
IV. What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and benefits package: Including health, dental, both short- and long-term disability, and life insurance, retirement savings plans, and paid time off.
- Professional development opportunities: Access to training and conferences to enhance one’s skills and knowledge.
- A collaborative and supportive work environment: Opportunity to work with a talented and dedicated team in flexibility in-person, hybrid, and remote work settings.
- The chance to make a real impact on your community: Contribute to the growth and economic prosperity of mid-Maine.
- Employment Type: Full-time, salaried position.
- Compensation: The salary range for this position is $57,000 to $70,000, commensurate with experience. Additional compensation opportunities include performance-based bonuses and structured commissions.
V. Experience and Training
The candidate shall have at least three to five years’ experience in community and/or economic development, marketing, or strategic communications in a position exercising significant independence and judgment.
The candidate must hold an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or higher from an accredited college or university, with relevant academic and professional experience.
CMGC’s leadership team has the right to consider all experience and education of a prospective applicant for this position and may waive these requirements at its discretion. The CMGC leadership team is responsible for approving and terminating, for cause, employment.
Applicants should mail a copy of their resume/CV, cover letter, AND a 1-2-page writing sample (e.g., marketing copy, policy brief, outcome/impact report, press release, academic essay, etc.) to: Central Maine Growth Council, 50 Elm Street, Waterville, ME 04901 or by email at director@centralmaine.org. No phone calls, please.
