About URCI

Union River Center for Innovation

The Union River Center for Innovation (URCI) partners with a variety of entrepreneurial support organizations to provide a hub of resources for area businesses and for those considering the launch of a business in the region. Offering onsite one-on-one business advising, entrepreneurial education workshops and webinars, affordable private and coworking spaces, and drop-in floating desk and conference room rental, URCI is one of Hancock County’s premier entrepreneurial resources.
As the region continues to grow, The Union River Center is exploring ways to enhance its service offerings to the community. Ellsworth is well suited for businesses within the specialty food, beverage, and distribution industry sector to thrive. With that in mind, and in addition to the business and entrepreneurial resources currently available at the Center, the City of Ellsworth is participating in the Downeast Food System Partnership and exploring how both the city and the Union River Center can contribute to the greater regional food system.
Come Visit

The Center is located on the scenic Union River waterfront in downtown Ellsworth, adjacent to the City’s Harbor Park and Marina, and within walking distance to numerous shops and dining options in the City’s historic Main Street shopping area.

Ellsworth is the largest and fastest growing coastal service center in Maine serving  Hancock, Washington, and Aroostook Countis. The City boasts:

  • Purchase and rental housing options both rural and in-town
  • Many options for shopping, including groceries and other day to day needs as well as furniture, appliances, electronics, and specialty large equipment.
  • Miles of recreational and hiking trails and with direct access to the beautiful Sunrise Trail
  • Water activities on the Union River and at several area lakes and beaches
Location, Location, Location
  • The Center is located within 45 minutes of Bangor Internation Airport and within 15 minutes of the Hancock County Regional Airport in Trenton offering daily service to Boston Logan Internation Airport.
  • There are 5 major colleges and universities within an hour of the Center
  • Less than 30 minutes from Acadia National Park.

“We had concerns buying a house without high speed internet, and this is key to our remote jobs. Having our office at URCI enabled us to move here full time. The ecosystem at URCI is friendly, cooperative, and efficient.”

Lisa Matthew, Private Office Tenant

“For over seven years, the Union River Center for Innovation (URCI) in Ellsworth, Maine, has been an invaluable resource for me as a remote worker. It has allowed my family and me to extend our stays in the area each summer while keeping me professionally connected and productive. The facilities provide fast, reliable internet and a comfortable, well-equipped workspace that helps me maintain a clear boundary between work and vacation time.

Beyond the practical benefits, URCI has given me the opportunity to meet and collaborate with other like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community even while working remotely. Its location—just steps from the scenic Union River park and minutes from Ellsworth’s Main Street—offers the perfect balance between focus and enjoyment.
Simply put, URCI has been the key enabler of my “part-time resident” lifestyle in Maine. I’m not sure I could have achieved this balance of work and life without it.”

Trevir Bond, Summer Visitor