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Van Air innovation center nears fourth tenant as staff seek greater board engagement
Summary
City staff updated the committee on Van Air (a private nonprofit) operations at the Bangor innovation center and foreign‑trade zone, reporting three current tenants and a potential fourth (a UMaine manufacturing spin‑off). Staff asked for more board participation and scheduled a board tour; no formal action was taken.
City economic development staff gave an informational update June 2 on Van Air, the private nonprofit connected to Bangor International Airport that oversees the innovation center and the foreign‑trade zone, and asked for more board engagement as a fourth tenant nears occupancy.
Economic development staff reported the Van Air board contracts with the city’s Department of Community and Economic Development for staff services and that the office is trying to shift the innovation center toward an incubator model — providing on‑site services to support tenant sustainability rather than only offering space. Staff said three businesses currently occupy the center and a UMaine manufacturing spin‑off introduced through the Department of Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, and Engagement is in talks to occupy the last available space.
Staff noted recent facility upgrades including a renovated conference room that could be monetized, and invited committee members to a tour so board members can see renovations and operations firsthand. The staff also asked the committee to help secure quorum and additional board members; the Van Air board’s composition includes committee chairs and other city representatives, and staff will work with members to set meeting dates.
Committee members expressed support for keeping the board active and said staff should proceed with scheduling a board meeting and tour. No formal committee action or vote was taken; staff will follow up on scheduling and membership to ensure the board can provide oversight and input on tenant selection and center programming.
