THE CIVIC INNOVATION LAB

The Civic Innovation Lab supports “community entrepreneurship” and innovation by providing mentoring and funding of up to $30,000 for civic, social and business start-ups that contribute to economic revitalization of struggling economies. Community entrepreneurs create innovative early stage companies that have local economic impact.  The Lab currently operates in Cleveland, Ohio and since 2003 has been the community’s first stop for idea generation and company creation, with an accessible and valuable process that helps entrepreneurs start companies. Other funding organizations report that the Lab’s investment in an entrepreneur provides the initial credibility and appropriate foundation for growth and has helped to create a vibrant culture of entrepreneurship in Northeast Ohio.  Based on the success of the model in Cleveland, the Lab is exploring opportunities to expand the program.

The Lab’s unique model provides a combination of start-up funds with volunteer mentorship from local business and civic leaders who are part of the local 22-member mentorship panel.  Lab mentors volunteer to work one-on-one with the funded entrepreneurs to provide business advice, coaching, connections and momentum to their early stage endeavors.  This civic engagement model allows current leadership to truly take responsibility for guiding the next generation of entrepreneurs. Although the formal mentor commitment is one year, many mentors form long-term relationships with their entrepreneurs.

OUR MENTORS:

The Mentor Panel is a unique group of individuals who are experienced entrepreneurs, innovators in their fields, and civic leaders. Our mentors are committed to offering their expertise and networks to our funded champions and help guide them toward success.

Each member of our panel has a background that prepares him or her to recognize strong proposals, contacts to facilitate networking and a willingness to mentor the next generation of leaders. At any given time, 15-22 individuals serve on our panel.

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OUR ADVISORS:

The Advisory Board's role is to assist the Lab with the new mentor selection process and advise the Lab on strategic issues. Michael Cristal serves as Chairman of the Civic Innovation Lab Advisory Board.
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OUR STAFF:

Jennifer Thomas, Director
Andradia Scovil, Program Coordinator
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