2026 New England Small Business Manufacturer of the Year Compotech, Inc.

Three men from the Compotech team standing together in a large warehouse, wearing suits and smiling at the camera.

Compotech, Inc.
Maine and New England Small Business Manufacturer of the Year
Nominated by Andrew Dorr, Machias Savings Bank

Manufacturing businesses can often rely on traditional industries to build their customer base and grow, or they can develop new technologies and methods entirely. When Compotech was founded in 2011 by UMaine grads Jacques Nader and Paul Melrose, they decided to put their engineering degrees to good use and pursue advanced composite manufacturing. Early on, they hired Tyler Jolicoeur as their first employee, which paid off as Tyler is now part owner, and leads the expeditionary business unit at Compotech.

Around the same time they were building out their team and operations, Compotech pursued a U.S. Army contract for contingency based shelters. Jacques and Paul knew their products could meet the needs of the Army, but they couldn't compete as a small manufacturer without some support. With that in mind, Compotech used the SBA's Certificate of Competency program to formally demonstrate their capability, and won a $4.2 million Army contract. As the work started, the business also used an SBA line of credit to finance the scaling up of their manufacturing, pay suppliers, and manage deliveries. Once this contract was completed, Compotech established itself as a quality supplier and continued seeking opportunities through the SBA Office of Government Contracting.

Compotech has grown from a small office to over 50,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing space, scaling from 20 employees in 2021 to 80 today. This growth has earned Compotech recognition on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America for three consecutive years. Most recently ranking  #31 among U.S. manufacturers, and #3 among all Maine-based firms, reflecting a 421% growth rate over three years.  Complementing its domestic success, Compotech was also distinguished as a Top Shop Honoree by CompositesWorld, an elite global recognition reserved for the world's premier composite manufacturers, further demonstrating the firm's excellence in advanced manufacturing. Much of that momentum is driven by their expanding work with the U.S. Department of Defense, including multimillion-dollar contracts for advanced shelter protection systems, demonstrating Maine can be home to advanced industries.

In addition to the high quality and high skill jobs they bring to their community, the leadership team at Compotech also shares their success outside of business hours. Paul gives back as a supporter of the Heart of Maine United Way, the Bangor Historical Society, and local youth sports programs. Paul also serves on the Mechanical Engineering advisory board at the University of Maine, the very institution where he and Jacques got their start, helping ensure that the next generation of Maine engineers has the tools, mentorship, and opportunity to build what comes next. Tyler serves on the Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership board, advising on manufacturing strategy, industry needs, and support priorities for companies across Maine. Jacques serves on the board of several non-profit organizations, where he helps provide scholarships and career development for underserved students.

Because of their exceptional growth and their impact on Maine's manufacturing industry, the SBA is pleased to name Compotech the 2026 Small Business Manufacturer of the Year for both Maine and New England.

This article does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the SBA of any opinions, products, or services of any private individual or entity.