FINNOVATION FELLOWSHIP ADVANCES NINE ENTREPRENEURS TO FELLOWS MODULE
Nine founders selected to continue intensive fellowship focused on systems-level change
SAINT PAUL, Dec. 22, 2025 —FINNOVATION Institute has announced the nine entrepreneurs selected to advance to the Fellows Module of the FINNOVATION Fellowship, marking a major milestone in the program’s current cohort.
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.
The Fellows Module offers advanced curriculum, expert advising, and access to a robust ecosystem of mentors. Fellows will continue refining their business models, strengthening their leadership capacity, and preparing for long-term sustainability and scale.
“Advancing to the Fellows Module is not just about having a strong idea,” said Connie Rutledge, Executive Director of FINNOVATION Institute. “It reflects the hard work these entrepreneurs have done to deeply understand the systems they’re trying to change and their readiness to build solutions that can last.”
The nine fellows advancing to the Fellows Module are addressing challenges across housing, equity, sustainability, technology, and community well-being. Their work reflects the breadth and strength of Minnesota’s social entrepreneurship ecosystem and the growing demand for business solutions rooted in equity and impact.
The 2025 Fellows Module participants are:
Alexandra De Kesel Lofthus: addressing the lack of sustainable strategies and systems in organizations tackling complex health and social challenges.
Alison Brueggemann: tackling the gap in appealing, accessible, science-based education about the female body for all gender identities.
Caroline Hegstrom: providing cold-climate gardeners with seeds and resources adapted to USDA Zones 3 and 4 to boost local food production.
Devin Boeing: closing the digital divide by increasing technology and AI literacy for youth and underserved communities.
Emma Hoyhtya: improving community arts education by ensuring fair pay and support for performing arts instructors.
Malik Mitchel: helping older adults age in place safely through coordinated home maintenance and repair services.
Ramadhan Mohamed: addressing textile waste and economic exclusion through ethical, small-batch manufacturing and training.
Dr. Sheila Sweeney: increasing access to culturally grounded emotional wellness tools for women of color and caregivers.
Tyjuan Morrow: promoting equity and sustainability in cannabis through subscription delivery from diverse, ethical producers.
The FINNOVATION Fellowship Program is made possible through the generous support of the Bush Foundation.
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About FINNOVATION Institute
FINNOVATION Institute is an inclusive community inspiring social change, growth, innovation, and experimentation. FINNOVATION Institute empowers social entrepreneurs to make a positive change in the world through the power of business. For more information, visit https://finnovationinstitute.org.