APPLICATIONS FOR COHORT 8 ARE COMING...
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The next opportunity to join the FINNOVATION Fellowship is almost here. Applications for Cohort 8 will open May 1 through June 1. If you are building a social enterprise and looking for support, strategy, and community, we encourage you to apply. Know someone who should keep an eye on the process? Invite them to join our newsletter so they can stay informed about deadlines, updates, and fellowship news.
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FINNOVATION Founders' Stories
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We’re excited to share two new reflections from fellows doing the real work of building, evolving, and leading.
In “Hold It Lightly: The evolution of a founder’s idea,” Ali Brueggemann reflects on how her original concept evolved into something bigger and more responsive to what people actually need. Her venture, now Vuloxa, is rooted in body literacy, advocacy, and better care for women and gender-expansive people. It is a powerful reminder that sometimes the strongest founders are the ones willing to let the idea grow up a little.
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In “When the Business You Built Builds You Back,” Dr. Sheila Sweeney shares what it looks like to move from long-established practitioner to founder thinking like a startup. Her story is honest, thoughtful, and full of the kind of stretch that comes with real growth. It is a strong read for any founder navigating reinvention, leadership, and the discomfort that often comes with expansion.
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We Love to See Fellows and Alumni Grow!
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A few members of our community are hiring, and we’re always glad to see ventures growing in ways that create new opportunities for others.
Taiga Farm / The Boreal Farm is hiring a full-time, year-round Farm Manager in Northeastern Minnesota. The role is listed at $52,000 to $56,000 annually. Founder Caroline Hegstrom is a current fellow.
Queermunity is accepting applications for an ad hoc / part-time cafe position. The application form invites candidates to share their interest, background, and availability. Founder Hilary Otey is a former fellow.
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Fellows Featured Beyond the Fellowship
Social Entreprise MSP has recognized several of our amazing fellows in their newsletter!
Tyjuan Morrow of Itz Personal was featured for building a social enterprise focused on transforming cannabis from a system of harm into one of healing and liberation.
Rammy Mohamed of Ramadhan Designs was featured for her work to bring manufacturing back to Minnesota through locally made fashion and zero-waste practices.
And Ali Brueggemann of Vuloxa was highlighted for her work to pair anatomy education with advocacy tools and build a more accessible, design-forward health platform.
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Stay Connected!
As we prepare for Cohort 8, we’re excited to keep sharing the stories, opportunities, and milestones that make this community so special. If you’re thinking about applying, mark your calendar for May 1 through June 1. And if you’re cheering on a founder or simply want to stay in the loop, keep reading and keep sharing.
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The FINNOVATION Fellowship program is made possible through generous support from the Bush Foundation, whose mission is to invest in great ideas and the people who power them.
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