Overview
Applications Open | Wednesday, May 6
Applications Close | Wednesday, May 20 at 1:30 PM ET
Application Results Notifications | Friday, May 29 by EOD
The Center for Entrepreneurship is excited to lead a pre-Tuck Launch Ecosystem Deep Dive to Portland, Maine and surrounding areas to explore the local and regional entrepreneurship ecosystem, impact of innovation for the area and heritage industries, and connect with key constituents. This EDD will take place August 4-August 6, 2026.
The Portland EDD will immerse T’28s in the entrepreneurial landscape of smaller-market cities, highlighting how emerging ventures and local innovators drive economic growth. Students will have the opportunity to connect with fellow incoming Tuck students as they examine the dynamics and challenges faced by founders in these environments.
Dive deeper below and check out this Instagram Reel on the T’25 EDD from August 2023 or this Tuck360 blog on the EDD from April 2023.
Students will have the opportunity to:
- Build a foundational understanding of entrepreneurship both in Portland and more broadly, and how regional industries impact innovation
- Be exposed to unique companies in a smaller water-front region
- Network with company founders, investors, and employees at early-stage companies to explore different models of innovation
- Learn directly from entrepreneurs
- Understand the role regional government can play in creating the right conditions for innovation and entrepreneurship
- Facilitate and contribute to discussions around solving complex and urgent problems through business
- Consider meaningful internship and job opportunities in a smaller sized city
Possible themes and industries to be explored:
- Sustainable business practices
- Innovation and its relationship to community and regional impact
- Venture funding
- Aquaculture and its applicable technologies
Student expectations:
- If one applies to the EDD program, they are committing to the program, if selected
- Students are paired to be “on-point” for 1–2 company visits. Responsibilities include:
- Gathering data on the company to be briefed to the group before being on-site
- Preparing questions to ask during company visits
- Completing a “2-pager,” due three weeks after the EDD concludes, that articulates key findings, reflections, and takeaways during company visits
- Attending a pre-departure program meeting on Tuesday, July 28, via Zoom
Logistics:
- The Center for Entrepreneurship will cover lodging for the duration of the EDD
- Some meals are covered by the Center (on-site company lunches and dinners), but breakfast is on your own
- Center-sponsored transportation will be provided
Fee
The program fee is $150. Please note, this does not include additional or personal expenses such as breakfast, soem meals, or free-time activities. Deposit is non-refundable.
Questions?
Email the Center for Entrepreneurship.
