Executive Summary

Who We Are

NSF Regional Innovation Engine transforming Northern New England's forest sector through precision management and advanced bioproducts

What We Do

Unify 137+ partners across academia, industry, and government through seven integrated innovation drivers

Our Impact

Creating 5,000+ jobs, generating $16B GDP growth, and attracting $200M+ capital investment by 2036

Get Involved

Multiple pathways for entrepreneurs, students, investors, landowners, researchers, and communities

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html> NNE-PROMISE | Northern New England Regional Innovation Engine
Northern New England Forest Products Infrastructure

Northern New England
Precision Forest Management & Advanced Bioproducts Engine

Transforming 25 Million Acres into a $38.7B Circular Bioeconomy

$160M NSF Investment
200+ Partner Organizations
5,000+ New Jobs Created
$38.7B Economic Value by 2055

Building on Proven Success

CONFIR

CONFIR: The Foundation

In 2022, the Coalition of Northern Forests for Innovation & Research (CONFIR) received a $2M NSF Regional Innovation Engines Development Award. Led by Principal Investigator Joe Short, CONFIR brought together 80+ partners across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont to assess regional innovation capacity and identify key technology opportunities.

CONFIR Achievements:

  • Conducted comprehensive regional assessment
  • Built coalition of 80+ organizations
  • Identified precision forestry and CNF as focal technologies
  • Established governance framework and partnership model
  • Demonstrated strong regional demand for innovation support
Evolution to
▶
NNE-PROMISE

NNE-PROMISE: The Engine

From CONFIR to NNE-PROMISE: Building on the proven success of CONFIR, NNE-PROMISE expands the coalition to 137+ partners with $57M in committed matching funds. Led by Principal Investigator Rob Riley, NNE-PROMISE is poised to become a full NSF Regional Innovation Engine, scaling successful models and launching new initiatives.

NNE-PROMISE Expansion:

  • 137+ partner organizations ($57M committed)
  • Professional CEO and 15-20 person staff team
  • Seven comprehensive innovation drivers
  • 15+ research projects at TRL 3-7
  • $160M NSF investment over 10 years
"CONFIR proved our region's capacity to coordinate complex innovation initiatives. NNE-PROMISE represents the maturation of that vision into a sustainable, self-organizing ecosystem capable of transforming our forest economy." — Joe Short, CONFIR PI & NNE-PROMISE Co-Lead
NNE-PROMISE Logo

Core Leadership Team

NNE-PROMISE is led by a seasoned team whose current roles span regional innovation, advanced forestry science, impact investment, research partnerships, operations, and sustainable economic development across the forest economy.

Rob Riley

Rob Riley

Principal Investigator & Interim CEO

Rob Riley serves as Principal Investigator for NNE-PROMISE and President of the Northern Forest Center, where he has led the organization's evolution into a regional innovation and investment partner for the four-state Northern Forest. He launched the Center's impact-investment funds, oversees rural economic development and forest stewardship initiatives, and brings prior leadership in microenterprise finance and downtown revitalization to guide the Engine's strategy and community impact.

Aaron Weiskittel

Aaron Weiskittel, PhD

Co-PI, Convergence Lead

Co-PI Aaron Weiskittel is a professor in the School of Forest Resources at the University of Maine and serves as Director of both the NSF-sponsored Center for Advanced Forestry Systems (CAFS) and the Center for Research on Sustainable Forests (CRSF). A leading forest biometrics and growth-and-yield expert, he has authored extensive work on forest productivity and climate impacts, and in NNE-PROMISE he anchors the convergence agenda by integrating networked NSF center capabilities, regional data, and applied research to support precision forest management, next-generation forest products, and workforce development.

Alicia Cramer

Alicia Cramer

Co-PI, Investment Lead

Co-PI Alicia Cramer serves as Chief Operating Officer at the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities, where she oversees program development and a portfolio of initiatives that channel capital into sustainable forestry and rural community prosperity. With more than 30 years of experience in the forestry sector, including executive leadership in business development and ecological services at Westervelt Company, she leads NNE-PROMISE's investment strategy to align public, philanthropic, and private financing for commercialization and scale.

Charlotte Bacon

Charlotte Bacon, PhD

Co-PI, Partnerships Lead

Co-PI Charlotte Bacon is Associate Provost for Research Development and Alliances at Dartmouth, where she supports multi-investigator grants and builds institutional partnerships across disciplines and institutions. Having guided large, cross-campus proposals from more than 40 departments and strengthened regional and national research alliances, she leads NNE-PROMISE's partnerships work to connect universities, federal labs, entrepreneurs, and communities around shared forest-innovation goals.

Joe Short

Joe Short

Co-PI, Operations Lead

Co-PI Joe Short is Vice President of the Northern Forest Center, responsible for coordinating regional programs that advance rural tourism, community development, and forest-based enterprise. Drawing on years of operational leadership and partnership-building across northern New England, he directs NNE-PROMISE's operating functions, ensuring effective implementation, partner alignment, and responsiveness to community and industry needs.

Ellen Kahler

Ellen Kahler

Co-PI, Sustainability Lead

Co-PI Ellen Kahler is Executive Director of the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund, a statewide organization created to accelerate the development of Vermont's green, farm, forest, and climate-forward economy. With two decades of leadership in sustainable economic development, including service on state workforce and agriculture commissions and boards focused on energy and food systems, she leads NNE-PROMISE's sustainability agenda to link forest innovation with resilient, equitable rural economies.

Why Northern New England?

Unique competitive advantages position this region for global leadership in sustainable forest innovation

🌲

Most Heavily Forested States in the Nation

Maine (88.8% forest cover), New Hampshire (81.1%), and Vermont (75.8%) contain 26 million acres of working forests with sustainable management certifications.

26M
Forested Acres
3M+
Partner Land Access
80%
Sustainably Certified
🎓

World-Class Research Infrastructure

Eight core partner institutions with established forestry programs, CNF research capabilities, and decade-long CONFIR collaboration providing proven foundation.

  • University of Maine: Center for Research on Sustainable Forests, Center for Advanced Forestry Systems, Process Development Center
  • UNH: Earth Systems Research Center, School of Marine Science & Ocean Engineering
  • UVM: Rubenstein School, Gund Institute for Environment
  • Dartmouth College: Engineering sciences, environmental studies
🏭

Established Industry Presence

$6.3 billion annual forest products GDP with existing manufacturing infrastructure, supply chains, and workforce ready for transformation to advanced bioproducts.

$6.3B
Annual Forest GDP
30K+
Current Jobs
100+
Manufacturing Facilities
📍

Strategic Market Position

Within 500 miles of 100+ million consumers (Boston, NYC, Montreal, Toronto), providing immediate market access for bioproducts while maintaining low land costs and abundant natural resources.

🤝

CONFIR Legacy & Proven Collaboration

10+ years of research consortium coordination demonstrating ability to align diverse partners, manage complex projects, and deliver results.

  • Established trust relationships across academic, industry, and government sectors
  • Proven governance models and coordination mechanisms
  • Track record of research publication, student training, and technology transfer
  • Foundation of IP, data, and infrastructure ready for commercialization

Regional Comparison: Forest Innovation Initiatives

Factor NNE-PROMISE Pacific Northwest Southeast Great Lakes
Forest Coverage 82% average 48% 62% 34%
Research Land Access 3M+ acres 800K acres 1.2M acres 600K acres
Partner Institutions 137+ 45 60 38
Collaboration History 10+ years (CONFIR) 3 years 5 years 2 years
Matching Funds Committed $57M $28M $35M $22M
CNF Research Capability ✓ Established Limited Emerging Limited
Market Access (<500mi) 100M+ consumers 15M 40M 25M

Six Strategic Goals

Aligned with NSF Regional Innovation Engine requirements to drive measurable impact

🤝
1

Expand cross-regional, cross-sector partnerships to advance innovation within the Forest Products Sector (FPS)

🔬
2

Create and refine new forest products, precision management tools, and ecosystem service markets through use-inspired R&D

MTI
3

Develop strategic pathways for translating research innovations to commercial applications and startup development

💼
4

Increase entrepreneurial capacity and support mechanisms across the Region of Service (ROS)

🎓
5

Strengthen the FPS workforce through education, training, and career pathway development at all levels

💰
6

Increase regional and national capital investments and develop sustainable financial tools for the sector

Why NNE-PROMISE Merits $160M NSF Investment

NNE-PROMISE offers NSF a unique convergence of proven infrastructure, ready technology, committed partners, and transformative economic potential across rural America.

🏭 Existing Infrastructure

  • Industrial scale facilities operational today
  • University research centers with specialized equipment ($120M facilities)
  • Regional manufacturing network ready for deployment
  • Proven supply chain from forest to final product
  • $500M+ in leveraged assets across the region

🔬 Technology Readiness

  • CNF production at 1 ton/day, scaling to 50+ tons/day
  • Multiple products at TRL 6-7 ready for commercialization
  • 125 patents projected over 10 years
  • Proven techno-economic viability through pilot programs
  • Industry partnerships validating market demand

👥 Team Excellence

  • 16 member multidisciplinary research team across 4 universities
  • Track record: $200M+ in competitive research funding
  • 350+ peer reviewed publications in forest science
  • Established IUCRC model for industry engagement
  • Diverse talent pipeline through regional universities

💰 Economic Multiplier

  • $38.7B cumulative economic impact by 2055
  • 5,000+ high wage jobs across 33 counties
  • $168M annual GDP contribution at steady state
  • Revitalizes rural communities in distressed regions
  • Sustainable model generating long term returns

🤝 Partner Commitment

  • 137+ organizations spanning entire value chain
  • Major industry partners: SAPPI ($2.25M), Weyerhaeuser ($1.25M), JD Irving ($2.5M)
  • State government backing from ME, NH, VT
  • $57M+ in committed matching funds (2:1 leverage achieved)
  • Multi year MOUs ensuring sustained engagement

🌍 Environmental Impact

  • Carbon negative production pathways
  • Replaces 1.2B kg petroleum plastics annually
  • 100% biodegradable products closing material loops
  • Sustainable forest management across 25M acres
  • Climate resilience for rural communities

Strengthening American Supply Chains

Reducing strategic vulnerabilities through domestic advanced biomaterials manufacturing

🛡️

National Security Imperative

Current dependence on foreign sources for critical materials poses strategic vulnerabilities to American economic security and defense capabilities

⚠️ Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

  • 80%+ of advanced cellulose nanomaterials imported from overseas
  • Critical dependence on foreign petrochemical feedstocks
  • Limited domestic biomanufacturing capacity
  • Vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions and trade restrictions

✅ NNE-PROMISE Solution

  • Domestic CNF production capacity using American forest resources
  • Bio-based alternatives to petroleum-derived materials
  • Reshored manufacturing for critical applications
  • Supply chain resilience through regional production
🏭

Domestic Manufacturing

Establishing American production capacity for advanced biomaterials reduces dependence on foreign sources and creates high-value manufacturing jobs in rural communities

🔗

Supply Chain Security

Regional production networks ensure reliable access to critical materials for defense, infrastructure, and strategic industries without overseas dependencies

🌲

Abundant Domestic Resources

Northern New England's 26 million acres of sustainably managed forests provide renewable, American-sourced feedstock independent of global commodity markets

🎯

Strategic Applications

CNF and bio-based materials serve critical defense and infrastructure needs including lightweight armor, advanced composites, sustainable aviation fuel, and next-generation construction materials

Critical Materials for American Security

✈️

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Domestic production reducing military dependence on foreign petroleum

🏗️

Mass Timber Construction

American-made materials for infrastructure and defense facilities

🧬

Advanced Composites

Lightweight, high-strength materials for defense and aerospace applications

⚡

Bio-based Chemicals

Domestic alternatives to petroleum-derived feedstocks

Strengthening America's Industrial Base

NNE-PROMISE advances national security by establishing domestic advanced biomaterials production, reducing strategic vulnerabilities, and creating resilient supply chains rooted in American forests and American innovation

Our Journey: 2025 to 2036

From coalition to Regional Innovation Engine, transforming Northern New England's forest economy through five strategic phases

Years 0-1

Development Phase

Solidify strategic plans, establish governance, finalize partnerships, recruit permanent CEO

Years 1-2

Nascent Phase

Launch initial R&D projects, establish Working Groups, develop evaluation framework, pilot workforce programs

Years 3-5

Emergent Phase

Scale successful programs, expand partnerships, commercialize first technologies, grow workforce pipeline

Years 6-8

Growth Phase

Full-scale operations, significant commercial outcomes, established capital networks, regional recognition

Years 9-10

Mature Phase

Self-sustaining ecosystem, national leadership, continued innovation, transition planning

2036 Impact Targets

Measurable outcomes driving regional transformation and economic growth

💼
5,000+
New jobs created in forest products sector
Measured via annual survey
💰
$16 billion
Regional GDP contribution growth
Measured via economic analysis
🚀
1,000+
Innovation outcomes (publications, patents, products, startups)
Measured via portfolio tracking
📋
25+
Patents secured
Measured via ip database
🏢
100+
Companies supported
Measured via program records
🎓
600+
Students trained (undergrad/grad)
Measured via enrollment data
🤝
100+
Partnership organizations
Measured via mou tracking
💵
$200M+
Capital investment attracted
Measured via financial reports

A bold vision for sustainable economic transformation across Northern New England

Financial Model & Budget

Transparent allocation of $160M NSF investment and $57M+ matching funds over 10 years

NSF Investment

$160M
Over 10 years
Research & Development 40%
Workforce Development 20%
Entrepreneurship Support 15%
Partnership Development 10%
Operations & Management 10%
Evaluation & Outreach 5%

Matching Funds

$57M
Committed to date
Industry Partners $28M
State Agencies $12M
Academic Institutions $10M
Foundations $5M
Other Sources $2M

Projected ROI

74:1
Return on investment
Economic Impact
$16B GDP growth from $217M total investment = 74x return to regional economy
Cost Per Job
$43,400 per job created (5,000 jobs / $217M investment)
Sustainability Plan
Self-sustaining by Year 10 through licensing revenue, membership fees, and service income

Capital Investment Flow

💰
Initial Investment
NSF + Matching Funds
→
🔬
R&D Investment
Technology Development
→
🚀
Commercialization
Startups & Products
→
📈
Economic Growth
Jobs & GDP Impact

Leveraging public investment to catalyze private capital and create sustainable economic transformation

Efficiency Metrics

$43K
Cost per job created
$8.7M
Per patent secured
$361K
Per student trained
$2.2M
Per company supported

Benchmarked against national innovation initiatives, demonstrating efficient use of public investment

Precision Forestry Technology Leadership

Precision Forestry Fieldwork

Field team conducting precision forest inventory with advanced LiDAR and remote sensing technology

Combining AI, remote sensing, and predictive modeling to revolutionize forest management while enabling sustainable harvesting and carbon accounting at unprecedented scales.

AI Forest Inventory

AI Powered Forest Inventory

Machine learning algorithms achieve 90%+ accuracy in automated forest inventory, reducing costs by 60% while enabling real time carbon accounting across millions of acres. TRL progression from 3 to 7 over 5 years.

Key Outcomes:

  • 60% cost reduction in inventory operations
  • 90%+ accuracy in species identification
  • 500K+ acres demonstrated by Year 5
  • 3+ technology providers licensed
Harvest Optimization

Real Time Harvest Optimization

Mobile applications and cloud platforms integrate LiDAR data, market prices, and growth models to optimize harvest timing and methods, maximizing economic returns while maintaining ecosystem services.

Key Outcomes:

  • 25% improvement in growth predictions
  • Real time decision support for 1,000+ managers
  • Integration with existing forestry software
  • Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Research Excellence

Research & Innovation Excellence

World class multidisciplinary team from UMaine, UNH, UVM, and Dartmouth developing breakthrough technologies. Track record includes $200M+ in competitive funding and 350+ peer reviewed publications.

Research Focus:

  • AI and machine learning for forestry
  • Remote sensing and LiDAR processing
  • Predictive growth and yield modeling
  • Carbon accounting and ecosystem services
Industry Infrastructure

Industrial Scale Infrastructure

Operational facilities demonstrating commercial viability and production readiness. Current infrastructure supports pilot scale manufacturing with clear pathways to full commercialization across multiple product lines.

Capabilities:

  • Pilot scale production facilities
  • Product testing and validation
  • Industry partner co location opportunities
  • Workforce training infrastructure

🌟 Core Innovation: Cellulosic Nanofibers (CNF)

CNF represents the cornerstone technology driving NNE-PROMISE's bioeconomy transformation. With exceptional mechanical properties (10x strength to weight ratio vs. steel), complete biodegradability, and production from abundant forest resources, CNF enables sustainable alternatives across multiple high value markets.

CNF Production Facility

State-of-the-art biomass-to-product conversion facility producing cellulose nanofibrils

$1.2B Market Value 2055
50+ Tons Daily Target
$3-4/kg Production Cost
100% Biodegradable
1.2B kg Plastics Replaced
$800M Global Market 2030
CNF Material Range

Diverse Product Portfolio

Cellubound and other CNF based products demonstrate versatility across packaging, composites, textiles, and biomedical applications. Material properties tuned for specific applications, enabling market entry across multiple high value sectors simultaneously including automotive ($2.5B opportunity) and packaging ($5B market).

CNF Packaging

Commercial Prototypes

Food service packaging, containers, and films developed to TRL 6-7 demonstrate market readiness. Industry partners validating performance in real world applications, with commercial production agreements in negotiation for multiple product lines targeting billion dollar markets.

Wood Fiber Products

Market Ready Applications

Commercial wood fiber insulation demonstrates real world product deployment and market acceptance. This sustainable building material replaces petroleum based alternatives while sequestering carbon, proving forest bioproducts can compete on performance and economics in established markets.

University of Maine's Process Development Center currently produces 1 ton of CNF daily, with clear engineering pathways to 50+ tons daily by 2030. Strategic partnerships with SAPPI ($2.25M commitment), Weyerhaeuser ($1.25M), and JD Irving ($2.5M) provide market validation and commercialization support. Techno-economic analyses confirm profitability at commercial scale with projected margins exceeding 30% for premium applications.

🇺🇸

Domestic CNF Production: A National Priority

Reducing America's dependence on foreign advanced nanomaterials

Currently, the United States imports the majority of its cellulose nanomaterials from overseas suppliers, creating strategic vulnerabilities in critical supply chains for defense, aerospace, and infrastructure applications.

NNE-PROMISE establishes domestic CNF production capacity using sustainably managed American forests, creating a secure, renewable, and geopolitically independent source of these strategic materials.

Current State:

  • 80%+ CNF imported from overseas
  • Vulnerable to trade disruptions
  • Limited domestic manufacturing

NNE-PROMISE Impact:

  • Domestic production from US forests
  • Supply chain independence
  • American jobs and innovation

Technology Readiness Roadmap

Advancing six focal technologies from research to commercial deployment

Remote sensing forest inventory

Current: TRL 4-5 Target: TRL 7-8
Research Development Commercialization

AI-based growth/yield modeling

Current: TRL 3-4 Target: TRL 6-7
Research Development Commercialization

Carbon accounting platforms

Current: TRL 4-5 Target: TRL 7-8
Research Development Commercialization

CNF production scaling

Current: TRL 5-6 Target: TRL 8-9
Research Development Commercialization

Mass timber manufacturing

Current: TRL 6-7 Target: TRL 8-9
Research Development Commercialization

Wood fiber insulation

Current: TRL 7-8 Target: TRL 9
Research Development Commercialization

Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) measure maturity from basic research (TRL 1) through commercial deployment (TRL 9). NNE-PROMISE accelerates technologies across this spectrum, reducing time to market and creating competitive advantages for regional businesses.

Environmental Impact & Sustainability

Quantified environmental benefits through carbon sequestration, fossil fuel displacement, and ecosystem health

🌍
15M
Tons CO₂ Sequestered Annually
Through enhanced forest management
⚡
8M
Barrels Oil Equivalent Displaced
By 2036 through bioproducts substitution
🌊
100%
Sustainable Forest Certification
SFI/FSC for all partner lands
♻️
85%
Waste Stream Reduction
Through circular economy approaches

Carbon Sequestration & Climate Mitigation

Forest Carbon Storage

Northern New England forests currently store approximately 2.8 billion tons of carbon. Through precision management:

  • Increase annual sequestration rate by 25% (3.75M tons CO₂/year additional)
  • Optimize harvest timing to maximize long-term carbon storage
  • Enhance forest health reducing carbon loss from mortality and disturbance
  • Generate carbon credits for sustainable management (475K+ credits demonstrated by partners)

Bioproduct Carbon Benefits

Advanced forest bioproducts create climate benefits through:

  • Material substitution: Mass timber replacing concrete/steel (70% lower embodied carbon)
  • Long-term carbon storage: Wood buildings sequestering carbon for 50+ years
  • Fossil fuel displacement: Biofuels, biochemicals replacing petroleum products
  • Avoided emissions: Sustainable aviation fuel reducing flight emissions 80%

Biodiversity & Ecosystem Health

🦌 Wildlife Habitat

Precision forestry maintaining diverse forest structure supporting 200+ wildlife species, including endangered species habitats

🌊 Water Quality

Sustainable forestry protecting watersheds, reducing erosion, and maintaining water quality for 100+ communities

🍄 Soil Health

Biochar applications improving soil carbon, nutrient retention, and productivity while sequestering carbon long-term

Life Cycle Assessment Comparisons

Product Category Forest Bioproduct Fossil Fuel Alternative Carbon Reduction
Building Materials Mass Timber Steel/Concrete -70%
Insulation Wood Fiber (TimberHP) Fiberglass/Foam -65%
Packaging Molded Fiber (Tanbark) Petroleum Plastics -80%
Chemicals Bio-based Chemicals Petrochemicals -55%
Aviation Fuel Sustainable Aviation Fuel Jet Fuel -80%

Sustainability Certifications & Standards

✓

SFI Certified

Sustainable Forestry Initiative

✓

FSC Certified

Forest Stewardship Council

✓

ISO 14001

Environmental Management

✓

Carbon Verified

Third-party carbon accounting

Seven Innovation Drivers

Comprehensive execution strategy ensuring technology translation, workforce development, capital mobilization, and sustained regional engagement across all 33 counties through interconnected driver activities.

1

Cross-Sector Partnerships

Expand and deepen regional partnerships spanning forest management, biomanufacturing, finance, workforce development, and policy to create unified voice for innovation.

Implementation Activities:

  • Biennial Regional Innovation Summit convening 200+ stakeholders across ME, NH, VT
  • Regional working groups coordinating R&D priorities, commercialization pathways, workforce development
  • Comprehensive marketing campaign highlighting regional innovation leadership
  • Policy advocacy securing regulatory support and removing barriers
  • Digital collaboration platform enabling continuous stakeholder engagement
Leadership: Rob Riley (NFC), Charlotte Bacon, PhD (Dartmouth)
Partners: FOR/ME, NH Forest Alliance, VT Forest Future, US Forest Service, NAFO
VSJF NFC

10 Year Targets:

200+ Active Partners
5 Regional Summits
2

Use-Inspired R&D

Create, refine, and validate new forest products and precision management technologies through industry driven research priorities and IUCRC model.

Implementation Activities:

  • Technology roadmaps identifying high priority innovations with clear commercialization pathways
  • Cross regional multidisciplinary incubator teams (16+ researchers from UMaine, UNH, UVM, Dartmouth)
  • Comprehensive TEA and LCA for all technologies ensuring economic and environmental viability
  • IUCRC fee for service model generating sustainable research funding from industry
  • Pilot scale demonstrations reducing commercialization risk and accelerating market entry
Co-Leads: Aaron Weiskittel (UM), Colleen Walker (UM)
Partners: SAPPI ($2.25M), Weyerhaeuser ($1.25M), JD Irving ($2.5M), Redstart, NSF CAFS ($2.5M)
UMaine

10 Year Targets:

125 Patents Filed
10+ Tech TRL 5+
50 Projects
3

Innovation Translation

Accelerate commercialization through business development, accelerators, and market entry support bridging gap from lab to market.

Implementation Activities:

  • Regional innovation system assessment identifying gaps, barriers, and opportunities for improvement
  • Business model innovation curriculum training 100+ entrepreneurs in lean startup methods
  • Forest product accelerators providing mentorship, workspace, and early stage capital access
  • Pilot manufacturing infrastructure reducing scale up risk through shared facilities
  • Market development initiatives connecting innovative products with early adopter customers
Co-Leads: Shane O'Neill (UM), Joe Short (NFC)
Partners: Maine Technology Institute, Roux Institute, DOE SM²ART Hub, Maine International Trade Center
UMaine NFC

10 Year Targets:

50+ Companies
30+ New Ventures
4

Workforce Development

Build talent pipeline through education, training, and career pathways attracting diverse professionals to meaningful forest sector careers.

Implementation Activities:

  • Regional workforce working group coordinating training efforts across all educational levels
  • Career pathway development from K-12 through community college, university, and continuing education
  • Forest Products Sector awareness campaigns highlighting innovation and career opportunities
  • Technical skills programs at community colleges aligned with industry needs
  • Apprenticeship and internship programs connecting students directly with employers
Co-Leads: Erica Watson (MDF), Joe Short (NFC)
Partners: Maine TREE, ME Community College System, Project Learning Tree, Vermont State University
MDF NFC

10 Year Targets:

5,000 New Jobs
3,000+ Trained
5

Strategic Capital

Mobilize investment through new financing tools tailored to bioeconomy ventures spanning venture capital to debt financing.

Implementation Activities:

  • Capital provider relationships across venture, debt, and grant funding ecosystem
  • Revolving loan funds and investment pools extending financing capacity for forest businesses
  • Investor education programs broadening capital sources and increasing deal flow
  • Investment information platform connecting entrepreneurs efficiently with appropriate funders
  • Risk mitigation instruments reducing traditional barriers to forest product investment
Co-Leaders: Rob Riley (NFC), Alicia Cramer (US Endowment)
Partners: Maine Venture Fund, Flexible Capital Fund, Quantified Ventures, Northern Border Regional Commission
NFC US Endowment

10 Year Targets:

$50M+ Capital
100 Funded
6

Regional Engagement

Ensure benefits reach all 33 counties through inclusive stakeholder participation and rural community outreach programs.

Implementation Activities:

  • Partner engagement processes ensuring rural community participation in all major decisions
  • Business development pools ($1.8M) supporting market expansion in underserved areas
  • Regular impact assessment measuring economic and environmental outcomes by county
  • Ecosystem monitoring tracking partnership network health and identifying gaps
  • Rural outreach programs extending innovation benefits beyond traditional urban centers
Lead: Rob Riley (NFC)
Partners: Farm Credit East, Innovative Natural Resource Solutions, LandVest, Lyme Timber, SAPPI
NFC

10 Year Targets:

$168M Annual GDP
33 Counties
7

Governance & Management

Establish transparent governance ensuring accountability, efficient operations, and maximum regional impact through professional management.

Implementation Activities:

  • Governance Board (12+ members) providing strategic oversight and fiduciary responsibility
  • External Advisory Group (15+ representatives) ensuring diverse stakeholder input and guidance
  • Professional management team (CEO plus 15-20 staff) executing strategic priorities
  • Independent evaluation by The Innovation Group (TIG) measuring performance against KPIs
  • Annual performance reviews tracking progress toward all 10 year targets and adjusting strategy
Lead: Rob Riley (NFC), Interim CEO
Team: Weiskittel (UM), Bacon (Dartmouth), Kahler (VSJF), Cramer (USE), McInnis (TIG)
NFC

10 Year Targets:

10 Years Operation
100% Transparency

Risk Mitigation & Contingency Planning

Proactive risk identification and comprehensive mitigation strategies ensure project success

⚠️ Market Volatility

Risk Level
MEDIUM

Description

Fluctuations in forest products markets affecting commercialization timelines and partner investment decisions.

Mitigation Strategies

  • Diversify product portfolio across 6+ bioproduct categories
  • Focus on emerging markets with long-term growth potential (CNF, mass timber, biochar)
  • Maintain 6-month operating reserve for market downturns
  • Develop multiple revenue streams (licensing, services, membership fees)

🤝 Partner Coordination

Risk Level
MEDIUM

Description

Difficulty aligning activities across 137+ partner organizations with varying priorities and timelines.

Mitigation Strategies

  • Strong governance structure with clear decision-making processes
  • Regular Working Group meetings (monthly) for each driver
  • Dedicated partnership coordinator position
  • Formal MOUs establishing roles, responsibilities, and expectations
  • Conflict resolution protocols and steering committee oversight

💻 Technology Adoption

Risk Level
MEDIUM-HIGH

Description

Slower than anticipated adoption of precision forestry tools and advanced bioproducts by industry partners.

Mitigation Strategies

  • Extensive user-centered design and stakeholder input throughout R&D
  • Demonstration projects with early adopters showing ROI
  • Training programs and technical assistance for technology transfer
  • Cost-share programs to reduce adoption barriers
  • Focus on technologies with clear economic benefits (>20% cost reduction or productivity gain)

💰 Funding Shortfall

Risk Level
LOW-MEDIUM

Description

Inability to secure full matching funds commitment or reduction in NSF funding levels.

Mitigation Strategies

  • Already secured $57M in committed matching funds (36% of target)
  • Phased spending plan allowing adjustment if funding reduced
  • Prioritization framework for activities (Tier 1: Essential, Tier 2: Important, Tier 3: Aspirational)
  • Multiple funding sources (federal, state, private) reducing dependency on any single source
  • Revenue generation plan for self-sustainability by Year 10

👥 Workforce Recruitment

Risk Level
MEDIUM

Description

Difficulty attracting talent to rural areas and forest sector given competition from other industries.

Mitigation Strategies

  • Competitive salaries benchmarked to tech sector for key positions
  • Remote work flexibility where appropriate
  • Student pipeline programs (500+ undergrads, 100+ grad students) building talent pool
  • Marketing campaigns highlighting quality of life and meaningful work in forest sector
  • Partnerships with career services at all regional universities

Contingency Scenarios

Scenario: 20% Funding Reduction

If NSF or matching funds reduced by 20%:

  • Maintain all Driver 1-5 core activities (partnerships, R&D, translation, workforce, capital)
  • Reduce Driver 6 (outreach) by 40%
  • Reduce Driver 7 (operations) by 30% through efficiency gains
  • Extend timeline for some TRL targets by 1-2 years
  • Maintain 5,000 job target but extend timeframe to Year 12

Scenario: Key Partner Loss

If major industry partner exits:

  • Activate backup partners from 137+ partner network
  • Redistribute research sites across remaining landowner partners (3M+ acres available)
  • Leverage steering committee relationships to recruit replacement partner
  • Adjust research priorities based on remaining partner needs
  • No impact on core funding or operations due to diversified base

Scenario: Market Disruption

If major market shift impacts primary products:

  • Pivot R&D resources to alternative bioproduct applications (diversified portfolio of 6+ categories)
  • Accelerate market development for secondary products
  • Increase focus on ecosystem services and carbon markets
  • Leverage Working Groups to rapidly assess and respond to opportunities
  • Utilize reserved funds to bridge gap during transition

Partner Commitments & Impact

Real investments driving transformation across the forest sector

🌲

J.D. Irving, Limited

$2.5M Commitment

Leading the way in precision forestry research. Providing access to 1.25 million acres in Maine for long-term research studies, facilities, and personnel support over 10 years.

  • Global leader in forest landscape research and climate/carbon modeling
  • Early adopter of digital technologies in forest management
  • Advisory board participation and data sharing

Pioneering carbon credit generation. Recent carbon credit project generated 475,000 credits, demonstrating the commercial viability of forest carbon markets.

  • Site access across 1.2 million acres in Northern New England
  • Sharing data and scientist time for methods review
  • Advisory board participation in Engine governance
Weyerhaeuser

Weyerhaeuser

475K Credits
💰

US Endowment

$1M Impact Investment

Catalyzing bioproducts commercialization. Co-PI commitment with $1 million dedicated to early-stage bioproducts ventures through impact investment.

  • Future Forest Economy Initiative: $14.8M leveraged
  • Northern Forest Fund: $30M for regional development
  • Expert guidance on sustainable forest investment strategies

Federal recognition for bioproducts innovation. $11.5 million EDA Tech Hub designation for Maine's Forest Bioproducts sector creates coordinated technology transfer and workforce development.

  • Technology transfer pathways for research commercialization
  • Workforce development program coordination
  • Market development partnerships across the region
Maine Forest Bioproducts Tech Hub

Forest Bioproducts Tech Hub

$11.5M EDA
Maine Technology Institute

Maine Technology Institute

Comprehensive Support

End-to-end entrepreneurship ecosystem. SBIR/STTR support, business consulting, grants, loans, and equity investments for Engine participants.

  • Maine Entrepreneurial Resource Corps consulting services
  • Regional funding mechanisms specifically for Engine participants
  • 15+ member board providing strategic advisors
  • Incubator support for early-stage ventures

$57 Million in Committed Matching Funds

These are just a few examples from our network of 137+ partners contributing resources, expertise, and infrastructure to drive regional transformation. Together, we're building the foundation for a thriving, sustainable forest bioeconomy.

Commercial Partners & End Producers

Leading manufacturers commercializing forest bioproducts and advanced materials

SAPPI

SAPPI

Global leader in dissolving pulp and specialty cellulose products

TimberHP

TimberHP

Wood fiber insulation manufacturing with superior thermal performance

Tanbark

Tanbark

Molded fiber products replacing petroleum-based packaging

These companies represent the commercialization of forest bioproducts, creating jobs and market opportunities while reducing environmental impact.

Professional Governance Structure

Transparent, accountable governance with independent oversight ensuring effective stewardship

NNE-PROMISE Governance Structure
🎯

Goal-Driven

Clear objectives aligned with NSF priorities and regional needs

T.I.G.

Independent Evaluation

The Implementation Group (T.I.G.) provides annual assessments using mixed methods

📊

Data-Driven Metrics

Real-time dashboard tracking progress against measurable targets

Accountability & Transparency

📋

Quarterly Reports

Progress updates to NSF and partners

🔍

Annual Audits

Independent CPA financial reviews

📈

Public Dashboard

Real-time metrics accessible to all

⚖️

External Oversight

T.I.G. annual strategic assessments

Partner Validation & Support

Strong commitments from industry leaders, state initiatives, and innovation partners

FOR/Maine

FOR/Maine

John Bryant & Alex Ingraham, Executive Committee Co-Chairs

"We are excited about this opportunity! Given our shared commitments to help researchers, local communities, capital investors, state agencies, and sector partners to leverage the potential of Maine's forests, we are fully supportive and invested in the CONFIR RIE."

J.D. Irving

J.D. Irving, Limited

Maine's Largest Landowner (1.25M acres)

"Critical investments like the CONFIR RIE are required to capitalize on the unique opportunities here fully. As a company driven by continual science-based innovations, we are committed to working closely with the initiative to facilitate the adoption of these innovations within our operations and across the industry."

US Endowment

U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities

National Partnership & $1M Commitment

"We are committed to the success of CONFIR RIE and pledge to actively engage with its leadership through service on an advisory board or working committees of the various ecosystem drivers."

Maine Forest Biomaterials

UMaine Process Development Center

Advanced Bioproducts Innovation

"Given the focus on both precision forestry and emerging forest bioproducts, translating these innovative technologies and research findings into tangible practices, products, and policies is vital for maximizing the impact of CONFIR RIE."

MTI

Maine Technology Institute

Entrepreneurship & Innovation Support

"We are committed to collaborating with state and regional partners to identify and implement cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and market access for forest economy businesses."

Unified Ecosystem Support

These commitments represent just a sample of 137+ partner organizations unified in support of NNE-PROMISE. From Maine's largest landowner to state innovation agencies, from national foundations to local accelerators, our partners recognize both the exceptional team we've assembled and the transformative opportunity before us.

View All Partners

Economic Impact Projections

Economic Impact

$38.7 billion cumulative economic value by 2055 across Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Conservative projections based on validated techno-economic models demonstrate sustainable returns justifying NSF's $160M catalytic investment. This transformation leverages existing forest assets to create new revenue streams benefiting rural communities, forest landowners, manufacturers, and the regional economy.

Get Involved

Multiple pathways to engage with NNE-PROMISE based on your role and interests

🚀

For Entrepreneurs & Startups

Launch and scale your forest bioproducts venture with comprehensive support

  • ✓ SBIR/STTR application support
  • ✓ Grants, loans, and equity investments
  • ✓ Incubator and accelerator programs
  • ✓ Technology transfer pathways
  • ✓ Market development partnerships
Apply for Support
🎓

For Students & Educators

Build your career in the innovative forest bioeconomy

  • ✓ 500+ undergraduate training positions
  • ✓ 100+ graduate research assistantships
  • ✓ 10+ new certificate programs
  • ✓ Internships at partner companies
  • ✓ Career pathway development
Explore Programs
💰

For Investors & Funders

Deploy capital in high-impact, sustainable forest innovations

  • ✓ $200M+ investment target by 2036
  • ✓ Impact investment opportunities
  • ✓ Technology commercialization deals
  • ✓ Outcomes-based financing
  • ✓ Due diligence support
Explore Opportunities
🌲

For Landowners & Managers

Access cutting-edge tools for sustainable forest management

  • ✓ Precision forestry technology
  • ✓ Carbon accounting platforms
  • ✓ AI-based growth & yield modeling
  • ✓ Market connections for new products
  • ✓ Sustainable certification support
Learn More
🔬

For Researchers & Innovators

Collaborate on use-inspired research with real-world impact

  • ✓ Research funding opportunities
  • ✓ Access to 3M+ acres research sites
  • ✓ Industry partnership pathways
  • ✓ IP commercialization support
  • ✓ Cross-institutional collaboration
Join Research
🏘️

For Communities & Policy Makers

Partner to drive rural economic development and sustainable policy

  • ✓ Economic development resources
  • ✓ Job creation in rural areas
  • ✓ Policy advocacy and support
  • ✓ Community engagement programs
  • ✓ Tribal Nations partnerships
Partner With Us

Leadership Capacity & Regional Service

Building excellence through merit-based leadership and dedicated service to America's forests and rural communities

Our Service Commitments

🌲

Rural Communities

Prioritizing economic development in capacity-constrained rural areas

🎯

Merit-Based Excellence

Selecting leaders and partners based on demonstrated capability and results

🤝

Regional Engagement

Deep partnerships with local communities, family forest owners, and Tribal Nations

⚡

Operational Efficiency

Maximizing impact per dollar invested in American forest innovation

Serving Rural & Capacity-Constrained Communities

Geographic Focus

80% of NNE-PROMISE activities located in rural counties, addressing historic underinvestment in rural innovation infrastructure.

  • 5,000+ new jobs concentrated in rural areas with limited alternative employment
  • Infrastructure investment in broadband access, transportation, and manufacturing facilities
  • Community listening sessions and participatory decision-making

Tribal Nations Partnerships

Meaningful collaboration honoring Indigenous forest knowledge and sovereignty.

  • Indigenous Forest Knowledge Fund administered by NSRC
  • Annual Tribal Nations Summit with NNE-PROMISE leadership
  • Advisory Board representation for Tribal Nations
  • Scholarship programs and workforce development in Tribal communities

Building Leadership Capacity Through Merit & Excellence

Our leadership team represents the best expertise across forestry, engineering, policy, and entrepreneurship. Each leader was selected based on demonstrated track record, research excellence, and ability to deliver results.

Research Excellence

6 core leaders with PhDs, 1,000+ peer-reviewed publications, $200M+ in prior research funding

Industry Experience

Proven track record commercializing forest technologies and building public-private partnerships

Regional Knowledge

Deep roots in Northern New England with decades of community relationships

Developing Tomorrow's Forest Sector Leaders

Training Programs

  • 500+ undergraduate students in precision forestry and bioproducts programs
  • 100+ graduate assistantships funded through research projects
  • 10+ new certificate programs for mid-career professionals
  • 1,000 youth engaged in STEM education activities

Access & Opportunity

  • Scholarships for students from rural communities
  • Partnerships with regional universities and technical colleges
  • First-generation college student support programs
  • Veterans transition programs into forestry careers
  • Apprenticeships and on-the-job training

Supporting Family Forest Owners

Ensuring small and family forest owners benefit from innovation alongside industrial partners

Technology Access

Subsidized access to precision forestry tools for small landowners (<500 acres)

Market Access

Aggregation services and cooperative marketing helping small producers reach premium markets

Extension Services

Free technical assistance, workshops, and one-on-one consulting for family forest owners

Measuring Impact & Accountability

📊

Annual Reporting

Public reporting on rural job creation, student training, and community impact

👁️

External Evaluation

Independent assessment by The Implementation Group (T.I.G.)

🎯

Efficiency Metrics

Cost per job ($43K), per student ($361K), per patent ($8.7M)

💬

Community Feedback

Regular listening sessions with rural and Tribal communities

Core Partners

Eight anchor institutions providing research capability, workforce development, capital access, and regional coordination. 137+ total partner organizations contribute $57M+ in matching funds, achieving 2:1 leverage on NSF investment.

Major Industry Commitments: SAPPI ($2.25M), JD Irving ($2.5M), Weyerhaeuser ($1.25M), NSF CAFS ($2.5M), plus 133+ additional partners spanning forest products, technology, workforce, investment, and community organizations across the three state region.

Resources & Downloads

Access detailed information about NNE-PROMISE for partners, investors, and stakeholders

📄

Strategic Plan

Comprehensive 10-year roadmap with goals, drivers, and implementation timeline

Download PDF

Coming Soon

📋

Two-Page Overview

Quick reference guide highlighting key facts, partners, and impact targets

Download PDF

Coming Soon

🎥

Video Library

Watch partner testimonials, facility tours, and technology demonstrations

View Videos

Coming Soon

📊

Presentation Deck

Slide deck for stakeholder meetings and partnership presentations

Download PPTX

Coming Soon

Need Additional Information?

Contact us for customized materials, data access, or partnership inquiries

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about NNE-PROMISE and how to get involved

What is the difference between CONFIR and NNE-PROMISE?

CONFIR (Coalition of Northern Forests for Innovation & Research) was the research consortium that laid the foundation with scientific discoveries and proof of concept work. NNE-PROMISE is the NSF Regional Innovation Engine that expands this foundation into a comprehensive ecosystem for commercialization, workforce development, and economic transformation. Where CONFIR focused on research, NNE-PROMISE delivers full-scale deployment and regional impact.

How can I become a partner organization?

Partnership opportunities are available for academic institutions, businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits aligned with our mission. Contact us at [email protected] to discuss how your organization can contribute and benefit from membership in the Engine network.

What funding mechanisms are available for startups?

NNE-PROMISE connects entrepreneurs with multiple funding sources including SBIR/STTR grants, Maine Technology Institute support, impact investment from the US Endowment, potential equity funding through Maine Venture Fund, and access to our network of angel investors and venture capital firms. We also provide application support and funding education.

How does NNE-PROMISE ensure environmental sustainability?

Sustainability is a core value embedded in every activity. Our focus on precision forestry enables more efficient resource use, our bioproducts reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and our research emphasizes carbon sequestration and ecosystem services. All partner landowners maintain SFI or FSC certification, and our governance structure includes dedicated sustainability oversight.

What career pathways are available through workforce development programs?

NNE-PROMISE creates pathways from K-12 through professional development across multiple career tracks including precision forestry technicians, bioproducts engineers, data scientists, manufacturing specialists, research scientists, business development roles, and policy analysts. Programs include undergraduate training, graduate assistantships, certificate programs, internships, and continuing education.

How will success be measured?

We track comprehensive metrics including new jobs created, GDP contribution growth, innovation outcomes (publications, patents, products), companies supported, students trained, partnership expansion, and capital investment attracted. An external evaluator provides independent assessment, and we maintain a public dashboard for transparency. Our 2036 targets include 5,000+ jobs, $16B GDP growth, and $200M+ in capital investment.

How does the Engine engage with Tribal Nations?

NNE-PROMISE partners with Northeastern States Research Cooperative to administer the Indigenous Forest Knowledge Fund and convene Tribal Nations partners. We prioritize meaningful engagement, respect traditional ecological knowledge, and create opportunities for Tribal members in workforce development and leadership roles throughout the Engine.

Have more questions?

Contact Us

Ready to Transform Rural America

NNE-PROMISE offers NSF a proven team, ready technology, committed partners, and transformative economic potential. The $160M investment catalyzes $38.7B in regional economic value while establishing a replicable model for sustainable bioeconomy development across rural America.

Discuss Partnership Opportunities