Board Member Spotlight - Justin Young
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Board Member Spotlight - Justin Young
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 Justin Young, Assistant Vice President, Unum Ventures, Corporate Venture Capital Fund
Justin Young, the newest MVF Board member, joined the board in September 2025. He sits in Seat No. 7, Investment Manager, which requires knowledge and experience in managing or investing in high-growth small businesses.
Can you share a little bit about your professional experience? I oversee Unum Group’s corporate venture capital fund, where I invest in and partner with early-stage companies shaping the future of family, work, and longevity. My experience spans across strategy and innovation, with a focus on helping emerging solutions scale within complex corporate environments. I’m passionate about translating emerging innovation into tangible business outcomes and helping organizations stay ahead of disruption In your capacity at Unum, what types of initiatives and issues do you most like helping entrepreneurs with? I enjoy helping entrepreneurs navigate how to work effectively with large enterprises, translating their early traction into scalable partnerships or pilots that can bring new solutions to market to address complex problems. I’m always impressed by the grit and determination founders possess and enjoy working with leading voices in their respective field to be a complimentary thought partner. What is one of your favorite fall activities in Maine? Fall is my favorite season in Maine, so it’s hard to choose just one activity. My favorite fall activities in Maine are taking my family apple picking, carving pumpkins, catching a football game or hiking one of the coastal trails to take in the foliage. There’s something about the mix of crisp air, ocean views, and small-town stops for cider doughnuts and a good cup of coffee that makes fall here feel special. Can you share one thing you always consider in the diligence process for companies pursuing investment from MVF? One thing I always look for in diligence is whether founders are in love with the problem they’re solving, not just their solution. The most compelling teams have a deep understanding of their customer’s pain points and a strong founder–market fit, a genuine connection between their experience and the challenge they’re addressing. I also look for clear differentiation, what makes their approach meaningfully better or harder to replicate, as well as a thoughtful view on why now: the market shifts or tailwinds that make timing work in their favor. When that clarity of purpose, differentiation, and execution come together, it’s usually a strong signal. How do you recharge? I recharge through faith, family, and staying active. Mornings and evenings end with quiet prayer or reflection, and I make time for exercise and being outdoors with my family, especially along the coast, which helps me stay grounded and present. I also enjoy reading history, politics, and theology; it’s a way to step back, learn from the past, and gain a deeper sense of perspective. Cheering on the UConn Huskies and New England teams adds a little fun and friendly rivalry to life outside of work.
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
