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V O L . X X X I N O. X V I I A U G U S T 1 1 , 2 0 2 5 14 MB: And the biggest obstacles? KS: Housing affordability is a sig- nificant challenge. While Maine may seem more affordable than large urban markets, wages don't always align with the cost of living — especially in high- growth areas. In addition, awareness remains an issue. Many out-of-staters still perceive Maine as seasonal or remote, rather than as a viable year- round hub for modern careers. MB: What's one thing Maine employers could change immediately to lure more job applicants? KS: ey need to sell more than the job — they need to sell the life. Employers should highlight profes- sional networks, opportunities for advancement and the broader com- munity talent pool. MB: In your commencement speech for Central Maine Community College this May, what was your message to graduates? KS: My message was simple: You don't need to leave Maine to succeed — you can thrive right here. I spoke from personal experience. Growing up in rural Maine, I felt pressure to go elsewhere because I didn't see examples of people like me staying and building fulfilling careers. But things have changed. Maine is now full of opportunity, across indus- tries and communities. I encouraged graduates to stay curious, stay rooted and realize that they can write their own story here. MB: What's driving the growth of the Startup Maine conference? KS: ere's a new wave of energy moving through Maine's innova- tion ecosystem. New talent is arriv- ing with fresh ideas, deep networks and a desire to contribute. Startup Maine is growing because it reflects this momentum. We're cultivating a space that's both welcoming and growth-oriented — where early-stage entrepreneurs and those who are startup-curious can find the resources and mentors they need. MB: What's in the works for next year's gathering? KS: We're designing next year's event to be even more dynamic and inclu- sive. Expect more national-caliber keynotes, activations across downtown and curated tracks for founders, inves- tors and others. MB: What keeps you grounded? KS: I'm rooted in the idea of being an ecosystem builder. It's not a job title — it's a mindset. is work isn't about fast wins; it's about slow, steady progress. It's about relationships, trust and showing up consistently. I'm fortunate to be surrounded by others who share that ethos. Knowing I get to play even a small part in that keeps me grounded — and hopeful. Renee Cordes, Mainebiz deputy editor, can be reached at rcordes @ mainebiz.biz Congratulations to Maine's outstanding women in business! Grade 9-12 • 267 Ocean Avenue • Portland, Maine cheverus.org You are an inspiration to the next generation of women business leaders. Strategic HR at Mt. Washington www.nimblegroup.co Retreat for HR Leaders O c t o b e r 2 6 - 2 8 , 2 0 2 5 O m n i M t . W a s h i n g t o n R e s o r t | B r e t t o n W o o d s , N H I'm rooted in the idea of being an ecosystem builder. It's not a job title — it's a mindset. This work isn't about fast wins; it's about slow, steady progress. It's about relationships, trust and showing up consistently. » C O N T I N U E D F RO M PA G E 1 2 Startup Maine What it does: Volunteer-run nonprofit that serves as a convenor and champion of Maine's entrepreneurial ecosystem Volunteers: 25 to 50 startupmaine.org Live + Work in Maine What it does: Private-public nonprofit focused on talent attraction and retention in Maine Employees: 3 liveandworkinmaine.com

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