October 16, 2014 — Ocean-related businesses in Maine are teaming up with an Icelandic entrepreneur to establish a so-called "cluster" – or business incubator – on Portland's waterfront. The aim is to grow the local economy and commercialize new maritime products and services.
Gov. Paul LePage joined Portland city officials and business representatives Thursday morning to make the announcement. The New England Cluster, as it's called, is to be based on an existing model in Reykjavik called the Iceland Ocean Cluster that's attracted more than 30 local companies in a so-called "cluster house," where they can collaborate and grow their businesses.
It was set up three years ago by Icelandic businessman Thor Sigfusson, who's hopeful the New England venture will grow in a similar way and attract some exciting local entrepreneurs. "I hope that our collaboration is going to lead to interesting new ideas and hopefully a creative environment and brilliant opportunities for young people in this area," Sigfusson said.
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