By Catie Joyce Bulay
Over the past few years Maine has sent a clear message to the tech industry that it is open for business. With new companies moving to the state and older companies growing and expanding along with this year’s downtown Portland opening of the Roux Institute, Maine is poised to take on a leading role in technology.
The Roux Institute, part of Northeastern University’s graduate studies program focused on artificial intelligence, biotechnology, computer and data sciences and digital engineering, saw its first cohort of students last fall in space it shares with WEX Inc. Not only do they share a home but the Roux Institute has a partnership with the financial tech company along with a startup residency of its own that helps Maine-based tech companies grow and attracts new startup businesses from out-of-state.