Agriculture Businesses Invited to Apply to Accelerator

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Agriculture Businesses Invited to Apply to Accelerator

Top Gun UMaine Center Logo

Maine Graduate & Professional Center's 2027 Top Gun Program applications are now open. Agriculture, food, and beverage producers and processors, along with business owners, are eligible to apply.

Top Gun is a hands-on, high-impact accelerator designed to challenge entrepreneurs and help them take their businesses to the next level. Come ready to put in the work, think bigger, and turn new ideas into actionable strategies for growth.

Applications are open through November 18, 2026.

Application

What to expect: As a participant, you can expect:

  • Expert Mentorship & Connections:
  • Practical Learning & Collaboration
  • Pitch Coaching & Development

The program culminates at the annual Maine Entrepreneurs Summit, where participants have the opportunity to present their businesses to investors and industry leaders and compete for cash prizes.

Timeline: Top Gun is a 15-week program that combines hands-on mentoring with high-impact weekly gatherings. The program runs annually from January to May, with the application process starting in late fall of the year prior.

Eligibility: Participants in the program are competitively selected. Applicants are required to undergo an intense application process, followed by an in-depth panel interview. All ages and experience levels are welcome to apply. Since 2009, the Top Gun Program has had the opportunity to work with some of Maine’s most promising entrepreneurs.

Investment Cost: The cost to participate in the Top Gun Program is $600 per team, which represents 10 percent of actual costs, thanks to partners and sponsors.

Format: Top Gun features weekly gatherings, primarily held in person, with additional virtual opportunities for learning and connection. In 2027, the program will offer cohorts in Portland and Machias.

If you have any questions, or need assistance with your slide deck, please contact Laurie Johnson