Our theme this year is “Evolution: The Future of Maine’s Heritage Industries.” For centuries, our state’s economic growth and global competitiveness derived from Maine’s rich natural resources and hardworking ingenuity in the agriculture, forest products, seafood, ship building, and textile industries.

While these heritage industries have experienced significant changes over the last two decades through advances in manufacturing processes and improved technology, a recent acceleration of innovation is making a splash in global markets, developing new products such as clothing and packaging made from forest products and heat-resistant textiles in space. At Trade Day 2024, our keynote speaker and expert panel will explore and discuss current and future opportunities for Maine businesses.