Board Member Spotlight - Jake Daniele
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Board Member Spotlight - Jake Daniele
Our next feature in the Board Member Spotlights Series!
We will introduce one of our Board members to share a little bit more about their experience and the perspective they bring to Maine Venture Fund.
The MVF Board is made up of 11 members, 10 appointed by the Governor and one ex officio member representing DECD. Each person brings specific expertise that enables MVF to thoughtfully evaluate the best way to support Maine companies. The MVF Board is responsible for making all investment decisions.
This installment features Jake Daniele, Small Business Development Manager, Department of Economic Development
Jake Daniele joined the MVF Board in April 2025. He sits in the Ex-Officio seat as a representative of the Department of Economic Development (DECD).
Can you share a little bit about your professional experience?
After college I started a promotional products business that spurred a second venture. I really fell into it by being in the right place at the right time, and I carved out a niche of etching glassware for craft distilleries. After renovating a house or two and earning my MBA, I ran for Town Council in Freeport. This exposure was an education in itself and led me to consider working for the State Government. Now I am the Small Business Advocate within the Office of Business Development.
In your capacity at DECD, what types of initiatives and issues do you most like helping entrepreneurs with?
I’m motivated to learn! I enjoy researching specific business resources knowing that I will be able to share that program broadly. Learning about opportunities and being able to report back to constituents is very rewarding. I also enjoy seeing the work at DECD have a direct positive impact on businesses. A highlight of my time at DECD has been managing the State's $10 million Business Recovery and Resilience Fund, a component of the $60 million disaster response to the 2023-2024 winter storms. Providing crucial relief and support to businesses during that challenging time was particularly fulfilling.
What is one of your favorite spring activities in Maine?
I’ve always enjoyed riding bicycles but in recent years my interest in bikes has really ramped up. Fat biking in the winter and riding indoors is really fun but that first outdoor ride on the road really symbolizes that spring is here.
Can you share one thing you always consider in the diligence process for companies pursuing investment from MVF?
I love learning about the team. The entrepreneurs' background and process to get where they are is always fascinating. And just as important is who an entrepreneur chooses to surround themselves with. Their background and choices tell a lot about them as a person. This could be their company's staff but just as easily could be advisors, an accountant, lawyer etc.
How do you recharge?
Being outside with my fiancé and our dogs always centers me. A walk or run with them is a chance to forget about the real world and reminds me to enjoy the moment. I also run martial arts programs in two communities (Freeport and Cumberland). Working with students on skills like discipline, respect, and leadership is inspiring and keeps me grounded in the community.
About Maine Venture Fund
Maine Venture Fund invests in Maine businesses that have the highest potential for growth and impact. For more information, visit maineventurefund.com.
Inquiries:
Terri Wark
Maine Venture Fund
(207) 305-0006
terri@maineventurefund.com
