Join the Maine Center for Entrepreneurs and industry partners during Maine Seaweed Week, beginning April 24, for a panel discussion exploring the exciting future of algal innovation!

Maine’s coastlines are home to one of the most promising emerging industries in the state: algae innovation.

While seaweed is widely known as a food product, researchers and entrepreneurs across Maine are discovering new applications for both microalgae and macroalgae in biotechnology, life sciences, skincare, environmental solutions, and beyond.

Attendees will experience; “Algal Innovations: Beyond Food,” a panel discussion bringing together researchers, industry leaders, and innovators who are helping shape Maine’s growing algal economy.

During this conversation, panelists will explore:

• Emerging biotechnology opportunities for algae
• How research institutions and companies are advancing the industry
• Commercial applications beyond food products
• The role Maine can play in the global algae innovation ecosystem

This event is part of a broader series highlighting the growth of Maine’s algal sector and the opportunities it presents for entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with leaders from Maine’s innovation ecosystem following the panel discussion.

Moderator

Michael Lomas, PhD
Senior Research Scientist, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences
Director, National Center for Marine Algae and Microbiota, Center for Algal Innovations, and Maine Algal Research Infrastructure and Accelerator

Dr. Mike Lomas, Director NCMA/CAI. Lomas holds a Ph.D. in Biological Oceanography from the University of Maryland at College Park. Lomas was appointed as Director of the Provasoli-Guillard National Center for Marine Algae and Microbiota (NCMA) in January 2014, and the Bigelow Center for Algal Innovations in 2020. During his tenure, NCMA has expanded its capabilities as a biological resource for algae science and innovation. In particular, Lomas has spearheaded development of a regional project focused on the translation of algal research to use-inspired innovations – the Maine Algal Research Infrastructure and Accelerator (MARIA).

Panelists

David Labbe
Director of Quality Assurance & Procurement, Ocean’s Balance

After obtaining his degree, David served as Operations Manager for a seafood production company where he gained valuable knowledge about seafood production and the seafood industry. His passion for local food, conservation, and sustainable industries led him to Ocean’s Balance, where he supports the development of innovative seaweed-based products. David earned his B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Maine at Farmington and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Project Management. He also serves on the board of the Maine Seaweed Council.

Sarah Delmar
Director, Maine Life Sciences Center, Maine Technology Institute

Sarah Delmar is the Founding Director of the Maine Life Sciences Center, a statewide initiative created to accelerate the growth of Maine’s life sciences sector. She leads strategy, ecosystem development, and early investments that support commercialization, strengthen industry partnerships, and build the infrastructure needed for Maine’s next generation of life-science companies. Prior to joining MTI, Sarah spent more than a decade with the Cambridge Innovation Center, where she led global expansion efforts to develop innovation hubs.

Michele Gilfoil
Founder & CEO, Planet Botanicals

Michele Gilfoil is the founder and CEO of Planet Botanicals, an award-winning all-natural skincare company based in Westbrook, Maine. After a successful decade-long career in risk management on Wall Street, Michele transitioned to the beauty industry in 2008 to create plant-based skincare products free from synthetic or harmful ingredients. She also serves on the board of the Maine Seaweed Council.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Location:
New England Ocean Cluster
68 Commercial Street, 2nd Floor
Portland, Maine

Agenda

3:00 PM — Welcome & Networking
3:30 PM — Panel Discussion
4:30 PM — Audience Q&A
5:00 PM — Networking Reception

Thank you to our Partners

Maine Algal Innovations - Beyond Food