Portland Professional Connections

Building Connections to Address Portland’s Workforce Gaps

With 85% of jobs filled through networking and 70% never publicly advertised, Portland Professional Connections levels the playing field for foreign-trained professionals. This innovative program matches international talent with established Portland leaders who understand their journey. Through informal coffee conversations and strategic introductions to three key contacts, participants gain the social capital and local insights essential for professional success, while helping Portland businesses tap into our community's diverse talent pool.

"Your network is your net worth. The richest people in the world look for and build networks; everyone else looks for work."

Porter Gale, Former VP of Marketing at Virgin America
"The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity. It's about what you can do for others, not what they can do for you."

Keith Ferrazzi, Author of "Never Eat Alone" and networking expert
"Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance. But real belonging is when you're invited to help plan the party."

Vernā Myers, VP of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix
"Talent is equally distributed, but opportunity is not. When we open doors for others, we create pathways that transform entire communities."

Leila Janah, Social Entrepreneur and Founder of Sama (formerly Samasource) and LXMI

750

Target Job Seekers Supported by 2030

63%

Target Placement Rate

99%

Report Increased Belonging

How It Works

Building meaningful connections through a simple three-step process

Connect

Pairs meet to discuss local industry trends and advice for maximizing professional experiences

Refer

Connectors introduce Connectees to three key contacts in their professional network

Match

Connectees are paired with connectors based on their professional goals and field of interest

Who's Involved

Bringing together professionals to foster economic inclusion and opportunity

Connectees

Foreign-trained professionals looking to build their professional network in Portland, Maine.

Hold valid work permits

Have completed relevant education or training

Possess sufficient English skills

Eager to transition from low-skill job or enter their desired career field

Start Your Application

Connectors

Established professionals who share their expertise and networks to support foreign-trained neighbors.

Minimum 5 years Portland experience

Relevant professional background

Willing to share 3+ contacts

Committed to fostering inclusion

Our Mission

Foster Economic Inclusion

Create equal opportunities to employment for all Portland residents

Enable Economic Mobility

Ensure all Portlanders have opportunities for upward economic advancement

Build Professional Networks

Help newcomers gain valuable insights into the local job market

Cultivate Local Talent

Provide opportunities to broaden networks within the New Mainer community

Professional Development & Support Services

Networking Events

Power Hour Sessions (4 Times Per Year)

Quarterly networking events that facilitate meaningful connections between professionals. Expand your network and engage in valuable discussions with peers and industry leaders.

Soft Skills Workshops

Level 1: Entry & Re-Entry Skills (Open to All English Levels)

Resume creation & amplification

Understanding workplace systems

Networking strategies

Effective interview skills

Advanced Skills Training

Level 2: Professional Advancement (Career Growth Focus)

Long-term employment strategies

Professional placement guidance

Benefits & labor laws

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

SBA Entrepreneurial Support

Business Growth Resources (Entrepreneurship Track)

Access to Small Business Association guidance and resources for entrepreneurial ventures. Get support for starting and growing your business in Maine.

Support Services

Ongoing Professional Support (Continuous Support)

Regular check-ins through the PPC network to track progress and provide continuous support. Plus assistance with expanding professional networks into new regions.