Building Community Strength:

Connecting Local Vision to Shared Impacts

WHY WE’RE HOLDING THIS SUMMIT…

Mainers share a commitment to tackling issues together. Across the state, communities bring the knowledge, values, and care needed to navigate change. Through the Building Community Strength initiative, GrowSmart Maine connects towns to learn from one another while delivering the tools that make action possible, and supporting communities on their own terms. Summit 2026 was conceived in that spirit, bringing people together from every corner of Maine to exchange proven strategies, spark new partnerships, and celebrate local resilience.

We invite you to join us at Summit 2026 to join the conversation and learn what is working in communities around the state. Come ready to trade real-world strategies, gain fresh tools, and leave with new possibilities for your community.

WHAT YOU’LL DO AT THE SUMMIT

Each year, the GrowSmart Maine Summit brings together 200+ people from across Maine. The focus changes each year, yet the program consistently encourages networking to delve deeper into keynote presentations as we explore what each of us can DO as a result of what we’ve heard and seen.

• Maine Smart Growth Awards highlight the projects, policies, and people contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous Maine.
• Community Spotlights feature smart growth projects so attendees can ask questions and learn from the practical experiences of communities from across Maine.
• City Experience Tours offer attendees a choice from several curated walks in the downtown area before the reception to round out the day.
• The GrowSmart Maine Annual Meeting – a brief opportunity to meet officers and members of our Board of Directors.

Registration Information

Member Registration Rate – $60

$25 – Senior/ Student Rate

Please contact Hildie Lipson at hlipson@growsmartmaine.org for a promo code if you, your business, or organization are already a member of GrowSmart or qualify for the Senior/Student Rate. A limited number of registration stipends and need-based scholarships are also available for attendees with financial constraints.

 If you’re interested in becoming a SPONSOR for our event, please find more information here or reach out directly to hlipson@growsmartmaine.org

We welcome new and former sponsors to help create another successful Annual Summit!