AUGUSTA — Emphasizing that innovation is the most profitable business strategy for manufacturers, the Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership has announced that it will again co-sponsor the Innovation Engineering Leadership Institute.

According to a news release, the institute is a three-day event designed for senior managers to understand how to create, communicate and commercialize new ideas. It will be held at the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport from March 5 to 7.

The event is intended for senior business and nonprofit leaders. Maine manufacturers are eligible for a discount on the registration fee, as a result of negotiations by the Manufacturing Extension Partnership network.

“The last five Innovation Engineering Leadership Institutes held in Maine were enormously popular and sold out. The recognized value of this program has prompted Maine MEP to once again encourage manufacturers to attend. It’s a great opportunity for senior managers to acquire the hands-on skills that can spur innovation and reignite growth,” said Rosemary Presnar, manager for Innovation and Technology Collaboration at Maine MEP and an Innovation Engineering Black Belt in training.

The registration fee for the event is $1,995, which includes all course materials and breakfast and lunch for each day of the institute. Participants will receive three continuing education units (CEUs) from the University of Maine for their participation in the program if they choose to apply. Contact Presnar at 207-623-0680 for more information on the discount.

To register or for more information, visit http://www.innovationengineering. info.