Melissa LaCasse is the CEO and co-founder of Tanbark Molded Fiber Products, an early-stage manufacturing company developing sustainable, bio-based solutions to replace single-use plastics. At the intersection of innovation and impact, Melissa is driving new opportunities for Maine’s legacy industries of forestry and manufacturing through a bold vision for the future of materials.
 
She co-founded Tanbark in 2021 to challenge the status quo in manufacturing and confront the global plastic crisis head-on. Her leadership is rooted in a deep commitment to sustainability, shared prosperity, and strategic execution. With a background in public media, Melissa brings expertise in B2B sales, business development, fundraising, and content syndication; skills she now applies to scaling Tanbark's reach and relevance in the market.
 
Melissa serves as Chair of the Board for the Maine Technology Institute, representing the Advanced Technologies for Forestry and Agriculture sector, and is a Trustee of the Board for Maine Public.