When the Business You Built Builds You Back
Hold It Lightly: The evolution of a founder’s idea
A mentor gave Ali two words that changed everything: hold it lightly.
In the FINNOVATION Fellowship Discovery Module, Ali Brueggemann came in ready to build Vulvacious, a design-forward body literacy platform she’d been nurturing for years.
But as she shared the idea, something unexpected happened: people didn’t just respond with interest… they responded with stories.
If you’re a founder, mentor, or builder navigating the tension between vision and reality, this one will stick with you.
FINNOVATION Institute announces new Executive Director
FINNOVATION Institute is delighted to announce its new Executive Director, Dr. La Juana Whitmore. La Juana has been a leader in the FINNOVATION Fellowship Program since 2020, leading curriculum and providing business advice to Fellows, and the Institute is delighted to see her role expand to lead the organization.
FINNOVATION FELLOWSHIP ADVANCES NINE ENTREPRENEURS TO FELLOWS MODULE
Following a highly competitive Discovery Module, these fellows were chosen for their demonstrated commitment to understanding complex problems, applying systems thinking, and developing viable, impact-driven business models. The Fellows Module represents the next phase of the fellowship and provides deeper, more intensive support as participants move from exploration to execution.
Balancing Head and Heart in Social Entrepreneurship
Do I Have What It Takes? A Founder’s Lesson at Farm Aid 40
FINNOVATION Institute Announces Entrepreneurs-in-Residence for Seventh Fellowship Cohort
FINNOVATION Institute today announced that Jacquie Berglund and Erik Halaas will serve as Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs) for the 2025–2026 FINNOVATION Fellowship program (Cohort 7). As a new program feature, these EIRs will provide one-on-one leadership and business consulting through regular office hours, giving Fellows personalized support from experienced entrepreneurs, enhancing the Fellowship’s robust mentorship model. This addition aligns with the FINNOVATION Fellowship’s mission to support impact-driven entrepreneurs as they launch sustainable, innovative businesses. As seasoned social innovators, Berglund and Halaas bring complementary expertise to the program.
FINNOVATION Fellowship Discovery Module Launches New Cohort of Social Entrepreneurs
FINNOVATION Institute, a champion for changemakers committed to solving systemic problems through the power of business, has announced the newest cohort of fellows for the Discovery Module of the FINNOVATION Fellowship. This dynamic group of 17 entrepreneurs will spend the next several months developing and refining innovative business models designed to address some of today’s most pressing issues.